The World Health Organization (WHO) has publicly stated that there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that paracetamol use during pregnancy causes autism. This statement comes in response to recent claims made by figures, including President Donald Trump, linking the common painkiller to the condition.
Here’s a breakdown of the key points on this topic:
WHO’s Stance and the Broader Scientific Consensus
- Inconsistent Findings: A WHO spokesperson stated that while some studies have looked at a potential link, the findings are “inconsistent.” This means there is no definitive, reliable evidence to establish a causal relationship.
- No Causal Link: The WHO’s position is that a causal link has not been proven. The organization, along with other major global health bodies like the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and health authorities in the UK and Australia, maintains that paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is safe for pregnant women when used correctly.
- Recommended Use: The WHO’s official guidelines remain unchanged: paracetamol is considered a safe option for pregnant women to treat pain and fever, as long as it is taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration.
Why Some Studies Show an “Association”
- Correlation vs. Causation: The WHO and other medical experts stress the difference between correlation and causation. While some observational studies may find a small association between paracetamol use and a child’s later diagnosis of autism, this does not mean the drug caused the condition.
- Confounding Factors: Researchers highlight the existence of many “confounding factors” that can complicate these studies. For example, a woman who takes paracetamol may do so because she has a high fever, a severe infection, or an underlying medical condition—all of which could independently be linked to adverse health outcomes in the child.
- Genetics and Other Factors: Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Scientists point out that some of the same genetic tendencies that increase a person’s risk of autism also influence their immune response or pain perception, which might make them more likely to need a painkiller.
Risks of Not Taking Paracetamol
Medical professionals are concerned that misinformation could lead pregnant women to avoid a necessary medication. They emphasize that untreated pain and fever can be more dangerous than taking paracetamol.
- Fever Risks: An untreated high fever during pregnancy has been linked to potential risks for the fetus, including birth defects and preterm birth.
- Limited Alternatives: Paracetamol is often the only over-the-counter painkiller considered safe for pregnant women. Other common options like ibuprofen and naproxen are not recommended after a certain point in the pregnancy due to proven risks to fetal development.
In summary, while some research has explored a potential link, the overwhelming consensus from global health authorities and the largest, most rigorous studies is that paracetamol does not cause autism. They advise pregnant women to follow the guidance of their doctors and to use the medication responsibly to manage pain and fever, as the risks of not treating these conditions can be significant.
