executive

Trump‘s Advice ⁣too ‘Tough It Out’ During Pregnancy Draws Criticism From Doctors

WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump recently suggested pregnant individuals experiencing‍ pain or fever should “tough it out,” a statement that has sparked concern and ⁢pushback from medical professionals. Experts emphasize the ⁤importance of seeking medical attention for fevers and pain during pregnancy and⁣ following established medical guidance for⁤ treatment.

A‍ large meta-analysis published in the peer-reviewed journal Molecular Autism in 2021 analyzed studies ‌involving over 10,000 children and provided further ⁢evidence linking maternal fever during pregnancy to neurodevelopmental disorders in ‍children. Research also suggests a possible association between fevers and​ neural tube ⁢defects, which can impact a fetus’s brain,⁣ spine, or spinal cord during​ the first month of pregnancy,⁣ according to‍ Dr. Laura‌ Gabard-Durnam.

“If a⁢ pregnant person experiences pain or a fever, the first thing they should do is contact thier medical provider to rule out more serious health conditions like preeclampsia,” said Dr. caitlin Baptiste,‌ a maternal-fetal medicine physician and assistant professor of obstetrics ⁣and gynecology at⁣ Columbia University.

Following consultation with a doctor, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is considered the best medical option for treating fevers and headaches during⁣ pregnancy, Baptiste added. “We don’t have⁢ answers as to why we have children with autism and neurodevelopmental delays … and ​that’s always ​scary as‍ parents so I understand why researchers and our administration is trying to come up with answers,” baptiste said. “But Tylenol does not seem to be ⁣that answer.”

Nonmedical options for managing headaches include staying hydrated, resting in a dark and quiet room, and relaxation ⁢techniques, Baptiste suggested.

Addressing concerns stemming from Trump’s comments, Baptiste urged parents who took ⁢Tylenol during pregnancy not to add it “to the long list‌ of worries and⁣ second-guessing​ that we experience as parents.” She‌ recommends parents discuss any concerns with ⁢their child’s pediatrician and consider potential testing if needed.

Gabard-Durnam, who also ‍took Tylenol during​ her pregnancy to treat migraines, echoed this sentiment. “This is ⁤not the time ‍to look backwards and have ​any more mom guilt than we already frequently enough ⁤have. This is ⁣not the moment to regurgitate the tired story of blaming the mom,” she said. “If you ​followed the guidance of your doctors… you’re doing the best for ‍yourself and your child.”

Recent scrutiny has‍ also been‌ directed toward Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol, regarding claims⁣ linking the medication to autism, as reported by USA Today.