US Health Officials Caution Tylenol Use During Pregnancy Amid Autism Debate

President Donald Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have issued guidance warning pregnant women against using Tylenol (acetaminophen), citing studies suggesting a weak association between its use and autism in children, though no definitive causal link has been established. This guidance has sparked controversy, with critics calling it irresponsible and misogynistic, emphasizing that untreated fever during pregnancy can pose serious risks to both mother and baby. Pregnant women have responded with social media videos defying the administration's advice, asserting their trust in science and medical professionals. Health experts, including Dr. Dorothy Fink of the Department of Health and Human Services, have urged pregnant women to consult their doctors, highlighting the importance of balancing medication risks and benefits during pregnancy. The debate also intersects with broader issues of maternal healthcare disparities, particularly for Black women, who face higher maternal mortality rates and systemic neglect, making blanket advisories to "tough it out" especially harmful. Overall, experts emphasize nuanced, evidence-based guidance rather than sweeping cautions that might lead to untreated medical issues in pregnancy.