Tylenol Controversy: Unpacking the Debate on Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy

On Monday, September 22, 2025, President Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the FDA would be issuing warnings to doctors about acetaminophen (Tylenol) use during pregnancy, claiming it “can be associated with a very increased risk of autism.”

The Announcement and Reactions

Trump stated: “I want to say it like it is: Don’t take Tylenol. Don’t take it. Fight like hell not to take it.” This announcement followed reports in early September that Kennedy was planning to release information linking Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism in a forthcoming HHS report.

Representative Rosa DeLauro issued a statement attacking President Trump and RFK Jr. for warning pregnant women about possible risks of Tylenol, calling it “dangerous Tylenol misinformation.” But how is it misinformation to warn women that a particular headache remedy might not be safe during pregnancy? Even if it turns out Tylenol is fine, a warning will not cause negative health impacts.

The Science Behind the Controversy

Ann Bauer, an epidemiologist at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, co-authored a review of 46 studies published in Environmental Health, which found a “strong and consistent association” between prenatal acetaminophen use and neurodevelopmental disorders. Her research suggested that “the higher the quality of the study, the stronger the link.”

A meta-analysis from August 2025 looking at 46 studies concluded there was “strong evidence of an association” between taking acetaminophen during pregnancy and autism development, though the authors cautioned their paper could only show associations, not causation.

Reactions from Medical Professionals and the Public

Some medical professionals, such as Dr. Michelle Vu, have posted videos of themselves taking Tylenol during pregnancy, saying, “My baby won’t have autism.” Others, like Dr. Nicole Saphier, have warned women not to “weaponize pregnancy for a political point.”

Many women have taken to social media to express their opinions on the matter, with some posting videos of themselves defiantly taking Tylenol during pregnancy. Others have criticized President Trump and RFK Jr. for spreading “misinformation” and causing unnecessary fear among pregnant women.

Conclusion

The debate surrounding Tylenol use during pregnancy highlights the complexities of scientific research and the challenges of communicating health risks to the public. While some studies suggest a link between acetaminophen use and autism, others have found no association. As the scientific community continues to study this issue, it is essential for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare providers and make informed decisions about their health.

For more information on this topic, please visit our health and wellness section. We also recommend reading our article on pregnancy and nutrition for more tips on maintaining a healthy pregnancy.