Is Taking Tylenol While Pregnant Safe? 8 Questions & Expert Answers
November 11, 2025
Quick Summary
- The real and serious risks of untreated high fever or severe pain outweigh any uncertain and unproven risk of Tylenol and autism.
- There are no safer alternatives to taking Tylenol for treating fever and pain while pregnant.
- Appropriate, short-term use of acetaminophen is safe and recommended, and current evidence does not justify avoiding it.
Pregnancy can be an exciting time in a family’s life. But it can also be fraught with confusion from misinformation, leaving parents unsure about what’s best for their baby and themselves.
That’s especially true after recent updates suggesting acetaminophen (Tylenol) is linked to autism.
To help cut through the noise and give facts you can trust, Sondra Nemetski, M.D., a pediatric emergency medicine physician with Hackensack University Medical Center, the #1 adult and children’s hospital in New Jersey, answers the questions so many moms-to-be are asking.
1. Is taking Tylenol while pregnant safe?
Yes. Tylenol and other brands of acetaminophen are the safest options for short-term relief of fever and pain when you’re pregnant.
Given the recent publicity around Tylenol and autism, concerns are understandable. But acetaminophen is one of the most commonly used medications during pregnancy. Leading medical associations, including the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG), the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have reviewed the evidence and continue to recommend Tylenol for fever and pain. SMFM Statement on Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy and Autism - Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine
2. I’ve heard Tylenol could cause autism or ADHD in my baby — is that true? What about in older children?
No studies prove that taking Tylenol while pregnant or giving it to your child causes or directly increases the risk of autism or ADHD.
Unfortunately, what’s getting attention are a few questionable observational studies that show a small increase in autism and ADHD diagnoses in children whose mothers said they frequently took acetaminophen during pregnancy.
But it’s crucial to understand this: Observational studies only identify correlations, not causation. Some also failed to account for genetic and other factors that may contribute to increased rates of autism.
Think of it this way: An observational study might tell you eating ice cream is linked to sunburns. That doesn’t mean ice cream causes sunburn. Instead, other factors — hot, sunny weather, more time outdoors, more ice cream trucks — contribute to both increases in ice cream consumption and sunburns.
Autism is a complex condition that experts are still trying to understand. It’s more likely that pain, fever, infection or other chronic conditions may contribute to both Tylenol use and autism risk — not that Tylenol causes autism.
3. How much Tylenol can I safely take while pregnant?
As with any medication, follow directions from your prenatal care provider. But these are the general guidelines:
- Follow dosing on the package. Take one to two tablets every four to six hours as needed.
- Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. Avoid daily/long-term use or high doses unless directed by a healthcare provider.
4. Does the risk of Tylenol and autism change depending on what trimester I’m in?
No. Acetaminophen is thought to be safe throughout pregnancy.
5. What if I don’t take anything? Is untreated pain or fever dangerous for my baby and/or myself?
Yes. We know for certain that untreated fever and/or pain can be dangerous and potentially lead to congenital abnormalities, preterm labor or miscarriage. Untreated fevers may also increase the risk of neurodevelopmental delays. These risks outweigh any unproven and uncertain risks reported for acetaminophen.
6. Are there safe alternatives to taking Tylenol while pregnant? Any pain relievers I should avoid?
Acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol) is the only fever reducer that’s safe to take during pregnancy — there are no alternatives.
NSAIDs like ibuprofen (what’s in Motrin and Advil) and naproxen (found in Aleve) can lead to complications for the fetus, like kidney problems and low amniotic fluid levels. They should also not be used in children younger than 6 months. Opioids such as oxycodone can cause preterm labor, low birth weight and developmental delays.
7. Are some people at higher risk when taking Tylenol while pregnant?
The liver breaks down acetaminophen. So, if you have liver problems, there could be issues. This is true whether you’re pregnant or not. Certain medications may also negatively interact with Tylenol. Be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any other medication or supplements you take.
8. What should I ask my doctor before taking Tylenol while pregnant or if I’m breastfeeding?
It’s smart to always talk to your doctor about any over-the-counter medication. Here’s what you’ll want to know:
- “When or what symptoms should I take Tylenol for?”
- “What if my symptoms don’t improve or they get worse?”
- “Are there any medications I’m taking that may react with Tylenol?”
- “Do I have any conditions that make Tylenol risky (such as liver disease)?”
Tylenol is also generally safe for breastfeeding moms and babies. Only a tiny fraction of the medication gets into breastmilk and is detectable only for a few hours after you take it. It also doesn’t seem to impact milk supply. Some studies suggest it may even help with breastfeeding, likely because untreated pain can make nursing more difficult.
Next Steps & Resources
- Meet our source: Sondra Nemetski, M.D.
- To make an appointment with a doctor from Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, the No. 1 children's hospital in New Jersey, call 800-822-8905 or make an appointment online.
- Learn more about maternity and pediatrics at Hackensack Meridian Health.
The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.
