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Is Tylenol Safe During Pregnancy? What ACOG’s Latest Advisory Means For You

  • Writer: Richard Lorenzo
    Richard Lorenzo
  • Oct 8
  • 3 min read
Tylenol and Pregnancy


If you are pregnant and dealing with a headache, muscle aches, or fever, you have probably heard that acetaminophen (brand example: Tylenol) is the safest over-the-counter option. In September 2025, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) issued a Practice Advisory reviewing the newest research on acetaminophen use and childhood neurodevelopment. The bottom line has not changed. When used as needed, at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, acetaminophen remains an appropriate first-line choice in pregnancy.


What exactly did ACOG say about Tylenol and Pregnancy?

ACOG reviewed recent studies that explored statistical associations between frequent or prolonged acetaminophen use in pregnancy and outcomes like ADHD or autism. These observational studies do not establish a cause-and-effect relationship. After weighing all evidence, ACOG continues to support appropriate acetaminophen (Tylenol) use in pregnancy for pain or fever, emphasizing shared decision-making with your obstetric provider.



The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) has echoed this position. SMFM states that current evidence does not show that acetaminophen causes autism or other neurobehavioral problems and continues to consider it appropriate when clinically indicated.


Why treating fever and significant pain matters

Untreated fever and uncontrolled pain can carry risks for both you and your baby. Controlling maternal fever is essential, and acetaminophen is the preferred over-the-counter option for reducing fever during pregnancy.


How to use acetaminophen safely during pregnancy

  • Use only when necessary for pain or fever relief.

  • Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.

  • Follow the dosing instructions on your product label and any additional guidance from your obstetric provider.

  • Avoid combining multiple medicines that contain acetaminophen. Many cough, cold, and flu remedies include it.

  • If you need medicine for more than a few days in a row, or your symptoms are severe, contact your obstetric provider.

These recommendations reflect ACOG’s current guidance to use acetaminophen judiciously and in consultation with your clinician.


What about ibuprofen, naproxen, and other NSAIDs?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen are not first-line in pregnancy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises avoiding NSAIDs at 20 weeks of pregnancy or later because they can reduce amniotic fluid and affect fetal kidneys. Avoid them in the third trimester due to additional fetal risks. If a clinician determines there is a specific need for an NSAID, it should be at the lowest effective dose and under close medical guidance.


What do recent headlines mean?

You may have seen news coverage suggesting a link between prenatal acetaminophen and autism or ADHD. Large, carefully designed studies and expert reviews continue to find that associations reported in some observational studies do not prove causation. Leading medical organizations, including ACOG and SMFM, have reaffirmed that acetaminophen remains appropriate when clinically indicated. As of September 2025, this is still the consensus of major professional societies.


Practical tips

  • Keep a single acetaminophen product at home to avoid accidental double-dosing.

  • Read Drug Facts labels to verify active ingredients.

  • Call your obstetric provider if fever is 100.4°F or higher, if pain is severe, or if symptoms persist beyond 24 to 48 hours despite appropriate dosing.

  • Avoid alcohol and avoid exceeding the maximum daily dose listed on your product’s label.


The take-home message


According to ACOG’s September 2025 Practice Advisory and current FAQs, acetaminophen remains a reasonable and often necessary option in pregnancy when used appropriately and in partnership with your obstetric provider. Managing fever and significant pain is essential for protecting both your health and your baby’s health.


If you have questions about what to take and when, our team is here to help.


Complete Healthcare - Obstetrics and Gynecology

509-392-6700


Richard Lorenzo, D.O.

Kortney Jones ARNP

 
 
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