Pregnancy and Tylenol use pose no risks.
La Presse Canadienne, in partnership with the Canadian Medical Association, reports that the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) has reassured pregnant women about the safety of Tylenol (acetaminophen 500 mg) during pregnancy.
In a position paper published this year, the SOGC asserts that there is no causal evidence linking prenatal exposure to acetaminophen to certain neurodevelopmental disorders. The assertion is based on a review of epidemiological studies, clinical trials, and toxicological evidence available up to that time.
The SOGC maintains that Tylenol is safe for use during pregnancy, provided it is medically necessary, at recommended acetaminophen dosage, and for the shortest duration possible. This stance is in response to the ongoing debate surrounding the potential risks of acetaminophen vs ibuprofen during pregnancy.
The SOGC further emphasises that access to effective pain management is a human right, and women should not be deprived of it during pregnancy. They strongly oppose opinions based on limited or erroneous evidence that might cause unjustified fear and guilt in pregnant women.
However, it's important to note that untreated fever during pregnancy can lead to well-documented risks for both mother and baby, including fetal anomalies, fetal cardiovascular complications, and autism spectrum disorders.
In contrast, a recent publication in Nature Reviews Endocrinology has questioned the safety of acetaminophen during pregnancy. This is in contrast to the SOGC's position, which is supported by a comprehensive review of available evidence.
It's also worth mentioning that the Wall Street Journal recently reported that U.S. Secretary of Health, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., plans to publish a report this month linking autism to the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy. However, no new information about this report was provided in the context of the SOGC's position.
In conclusion, the SOGC continues to reaffirm the safety of Tylenol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy, provided it is used as directed. They urge pregnant women to consult with their healthcare providers for guidance on managing pain during pregnancy. La Presse Canadienne is solely responsible for this journalistic content.
