Use of paracetamol in pregnancy: no evidence of a link to autism

The MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) has confirmed that taking paracetamol during pregnancy remains safe and there is no evidence it causes autism in children.

People should feel reassured that using paracetamol, as directed in the patient information leaflet and in line with NHS advice, is safe.

Dr Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the MHRA, said: “Paracetamol remains the recommended pain relief option for pregnant women when used as directed. Pregnant women should continue to follow existing NHS guidance and speak to their healthcare professional if they have questions about any medication during pregnancy. Untreated pain and fever can pose risks to the unborn baby, so it is important to manage these symptoms with the recommended treatment.”

What the evidence and facts say: 

• A major study conducted in Sweden in 2024, involving 2.4 million children found no evidence that paracetamol causes autism in pregnancy.
• Public health agencies and autism charities agree that there is no evidence that paracetamol causes autism.
• Untreated pain and fever can pose real risks to the unborn baby, so it is crucial to manage these symptoms with the recommended treatment. Paracetamol continues to be the recommended pain relief option for pregnant women when used as directed.
• Patients should not swap to alternatives such as ibuprofen, as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are generally not recommended during pregnancy

More information 

Read the full MHRA article: MHRA confirms taking paracetamol during pregnancy remains safe and there is no evidence it causes autism in children - GOV.UK

Read the joint statement from UK autism charities: The Trump administration and autism: a joint statement from leading UK autism charities | Autistica

For more information visit: Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking paracetamol for adults - NHS