At Orleans Family Health Clinic, our priority is ensuring safe, evidence-based care for mothers and their babies. Recent comments by the President of the United States suggested a link between acetaminophen (Tylenol) use in pregnancy and autism. These claims are not supported by scientific evidence and risk causing confusion and harm if pregnant women turn instead to unsafe alternatives like Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen).

The Facts on Acetaminophen

• Health Canada and international experts agree: there is no conclusive evidence that acetaminophen causes autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders when used as directed.
• Acetaminophen has been safely used by millions of pregnant and breastfeeding women worldwide for decades.
• It remains the first-line treatment for fever and pain during pregnancy.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed.

Why Advil and Aleve Are Not Recommended

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) are NSAIDs and are not safe during pregnancy, especially in the first and third trimesters:

First trimester risks:

• Possible higher risk of miscarriage.
• Some evidence suggests increased risk of certain birth defects, including heart and abdominal wall defects.

Third trimester risks:

• Can cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus, an important fetal blood vessel needed for circulation before birth.
• Can impair the baby’s kidneys, leading to low amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios).
• May increase the risk of bleeding complications or delayed labour.

Because of these risks, acetaminophen is the recommended and safer option.

Why Treating Fever and Pain Matters

Leaving fever or pain untreated in pregnancy is not risk-free:

• High fever can increase risks to both the mother and developing baby.
• Uncontrolled pain can impact sleep, increase stress, and affect overall health.

The balance of evidence clearly shows that acetaminophen, when used responsibly, is safer than leaving these symptoms untreated.

Safe Use Guidelines

• Always follow the instructions on the product label.
• Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
• Use only the amount you need for the shortest possible time.
• Call your healthcare provider if:
  • Pain lasts more than 5 days, or
  • Fever lasts more than 3 days.

OFHC’s Guidance

• Continue to use acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain or fever in pregnancy, as directed.
• Avoid ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), especially in the first and third trimesters.
• Talk to your family doctor or nurse practitioner if you have questions about any medication during pregnancy.

What Health Canada Is Doing

Health Canada continuously reviews the safety of medications like acetaminophen. If new evidence emerges, recommendations will be updated immediately. Current guidance remains clear: acetaminophen is safe and recommended for pain and fever in pregnancy.

Takeaway: Pregnant women should avoid Advil and Aleve — especially in the first and third trimesters — and continue to use acetaminophen responsibly. Your OFHC healthcare team is here to answer your questions and provide safe, compassionate care.

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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.