Overview
- After the administration’s warning last month, ACOG labeled the claims irresponsible and reaffirmed acetaminophen as a short-term option for pain and fever during pregnancy.
- The FDA advised minimizing use for routine low-grade fevers in pregnancy but said acetaminophen remains the safest over-the-counter choice compared with NSAIDs.
- Pediatric leaders emphasized following dosing guidance and warned that untreated maternal fever can endanger both mother and fetus.
- Health experts clarified that studies show associations, not causation, and that no solid peer-reviewed evidence proves prenatal acetaminophen causes autism.
- A KFF survey found 77% had heard the claim yet only 35% said it is definitely false, reinforcing calls for clinician-led education as trust tilts toward professional societies.