Recently, the White House made an announcement on the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy, as well as vaccines, being tied to an increased risk of autism. Experts and national health organizations said the statement was confusing and not backed by science. The autism community was divided—some saying the news was blaming mothers and increasing the stigma around autism, and others grateful for the news that the FDA will approve leucovorin for autism symptoms.
What we do know for sure, is that autism is a complex developmental disorder without a single cause, but extensive research points to a strong genetic link as well as environmental factors. Experts urge pregnant patients to speak to their doctor about their own personal health decisions. Below, we’re sharing some of the response from health organizations around the United States:
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
ACOG reaffirms that acetaminophen remains the analgesic [pain reliever] and antipyretic [fever reducer] of choice during pregnancy. Judicious use at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration, in consultation with an obstetrician–gynecologist or other obstetric care professional, remains consistent with best practice.
For more, got to acog.org.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Studies have repeatedly found no credible link between life-saving childhood vaccines and autism. This research, in many countries, involving thousands of individuals, has spanned multiple decades. Any effort to misrepresent sound, strong science poses a threat to the health of children.
For more, go to aap.org.
American Psychiatric Association
Vaccines do not cause autism. Claims of any such association have been repeatedly discredited in peer reviewed studies.
Autism is a complex disorder, and it is incorrect to imply that a handful of studies have established causation. A strong base of evidence shows that acetaminophen, when taken as directed, is safe for use during pregnancy. Any decisions around a course of treatment should be determined by a patient and their doctor.
For more, go to psychiatry.org.
Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM)
The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) reiterates its recommendation advising both physicians and patients that acetaminophen is an appropriate medication to treat pain and fever during pregnancy.
Despite assertions to the contrary, a thorough review of existing research suggesting a potential link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children has not established a causal relationship.
For more, go to smfm.org.
