Trump's Claims About Tylenol And Autism Are Dangerous
Parents deserve facts, not panic. We debunk Trump’s claim—which puts pregnant people and babies at risk—and share clear, doctor‑backed advice for safe pain and fever relief during pregnancy.
President Donald Trump recently stated that there’s a danger of taking Tylenol when pregnant because it could be linked to autism. So, we’ve decided to clear things up. Although he’s the world leader of one of the most powerful countries in the world, perhaps parents shouldn’t take medical advice directly from him. After all, he recommended injecting disinfectant as a means to fight COVID several years ago.
In his words, “Don't take Tylenol if you're pregnant, and don't give Tylenol to your child,” because, as he put it, Tylenol “is no good.” However, medical experts have made huge efforts to get the word out that no, the pain reliever is not related to autism. In fact, it could be dangerous for mom and baby not to take acetaminophen for a fever when pregnant. The risks of an untreated fever may even include Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Here’s what some of the top health advocates told Today’s Parent about Trump’s allegations.
Statement from the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada President on acetaminophen use during pregnancy
Dr. Lynn Murphy-Kaulbeck, President of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada, said, “We know that expectant mothers and families will be confused by the conflicting reports about acetaminophen use in pregnancy. The SOGC reviewed the research and can reaffirm our recommendation that acetaminophen is safe for pregnant women. This recommendation is based on scientific data that shows acetaminophen remains a safe option to manage fever and pain in pregnancy, when used at recommended doses.
Untreated fever in pregnant patients can carry significant risks for both mother and baby, and acetaminophen is the safest option to treat fever and pain during pregnancy. Asking women to ‘tough it out’ when they are ill and need treatment during pregnancy is not only ill-advised; it could also be dangerous. We want to ensure women do not forgo effective treatment because of fear or misinformation.”
Health Canada states there’s no conclusive evidence that Tylenol is linked to autism
On September 23rd, Health Canada put out the following in response to President Trump. “Health Canada currently maintains that there is no conclusive evidence (they bolded this) that using acetaminophen as directed during pregnancy causes autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders. Acetaminophen is commonly used to relieve pain and reduce fever. It has been used safely by millions of Canadians for decades, including during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Acetaminophen is a recommended treatment of pain or fever in pregnancy when used as directed. It should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed. Untreated fever and pain in pregnant women can pose risks to the unborn child.
And epidemiologists, like Christopher Labos, agree. Labos is an MD and Course Lecturer at the Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health and an Affiliate Member of the Department of Global and Public Health at McGill University. He said, “There is no validity to the claim that acetaminophen (Tylenol) causes autism. There has been near-universal condemnation by the medical community in this. The best high-quality studies show no link. There is pretty broad consensus that autism is largely genetically mediated. Environmental factors may play a role, but generally a minor one.”
OBGYNs restate the safety of Tylenol during pregnancy several weeks before Trump’s statements
On September 15th, the SOGC released a statement regarding acetaminophen use in pregnancy, even before the US president made the claims. They reported, “The SOGC revisited the scientific evidence and is now reaffirming its 2021 recommendation: acetaminophen remains a safe and appropriate first-line option for managing fever and pain during pregnancy when medically needed, at recommended doses and for the shortest duration necessary.
Despite some claims suggesting a causal link between prenatal exposure to acetaminophen and certain neurodevelopmental disorders, the SOGC reasserts that the evidence supporting these claims is weak and has been consistently refuted by scientific and regulatory bodies. Reputable international medical organizations have likewise firmly stated that current clinical practice regarding acetaminophen use during pregnancy should not change.
The SOGC emphasizes that untreated fever in pregnancy carries well-documented risks for both mother and baby, including fetal organ malformations, fetal cardiovascular complications and even Autism Spectrum Disorder. Access to effective pain management is considered a human right, which women should not be denied just because they are pregnant. In an age of growing misinformation and disinformation, the SOGC strongly urges all Canadians to ensure decisions about their health care is guided by evidence-based science and clinical expertise.”
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Jenn Cox is a freelance journalist in Montreal and the mother of an 11-year-old. She loves crafts, gardening, and spending time with her family, including their doodle, Toby.