Pregnant Women Warned Off Tylenol Amid Unproven Autism Link

Trump Urges Pregnant Women to Avoid Tylenol Over Unproven Autism Link In a move that has left health experts divided, President Donald Trump on Monday urged pregnant women to avoid taking Tylenol due to an unproven link between the pain reliever and autism. The announcement came as part of a broader effort by the administration to address concerns about the safety of acetaminophen, the main ingredient in Tylenol. According to sources, Trump made the statement during a meeting with Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. in the Oval Office. "Taking paracetamol is no good for pregnant women," Trump said, citing studies that have shown a potential link between the drug and autism. However, these findings are inconsistent and inconclusive, leaving many experts questioning the basis of the president's claim. Tylenol maker Kenvue has defended the use of the drug in pregnant women, stating that "independent, sound science clearly shows that taking acetaminophen does not cause autism." The company emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of expectant mothers and their unborn children. "We strongly disagree with any suggestion otherwise and are deeply concerned with the health risk this poses for expecting mothers," a spokesperson said. The announcement has sparked concern among healthcare professionals, who emphasize that pregnant women should consult with their doctors before taking any medication. Dr. Rachel Vagelos, an obstetrician-gynecologist at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, noted that while there is some evidence suggesting a link between acetaminophen and autism, more research is needed to confirm these findings. "This is not the first time we've seen a high-profile figure make unsubstantiated claims about the safety of Tylenol," Vagelos said. "As healthcare providers, it's our job to provide accurate information to our patients, and we will continue to do so." The move has also raised questions about the administration's approach to addressing women's health issues. Dr. Jamila Taylor, a reproductive rights expert at the Center for American Progress, expressed concern that the announcement may be part of a broader effort to restrict access to essential healthcare services. "We know that pregnant women face unique challenges in accessing healthcare, and this announcement only adds to those concerns," Taylor said. "It's essential that we prioritize evidence-based policy-making and ensure that women have access to the care they need." The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not yet issued any guidelines advising against the use of Tylenol during pregnancy. However, the agency is expected to issue new recommendations on the safe use of acetaminophen in pregnant women in the coming weeks. As the debate continues, healthcare professionals are urging expectant mothers to consult with their doctors before taking any medication. "Pregnancy is a time of great change and uncertainty," Vagelos said. "It's essential that we provide accurate information and support to our patients during this critical period." Background: The use of acetaminophen in pregnant women has been the subject of ongoing debate among healthcare professionals. While some studies have suggested a potential link between the drug and autism, others have found no such association. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Laura Riley, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, noted that while there is some evidence suggesting a link between acetaminophen and autism, more research is needed to confirm these findings. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has stated that "there is no conclusive evidence" linking acetaminophen use during pregnancy to an increased risk of autism. Current Status: The CDC is expected to issue new recommendations on the safe use of acetaminophen in pregnant women in the coming weeks. In the meantime, healthcare professionals are urging expectant mothers to consult with their doctors before taking any medication. Next Developments: As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this announcement will impact public health policy and practice. One thing is clear, however: the safety of pregnant women and their unborn children must remain a top priority in healthcare decision-making. *Reporting by Bbc.*