Trump’s Claim About Tylenol and Pregnancy: A Fact Check
Former President Donald Trump recently stated that there’s “no downside” to avoiding Tylenol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy. This claim is demonstrably false, according to leading medical organizations and extensive research.
Medical professionals overwhelmingly agree that untreated fevers and pain during pregnancy pose notable risks to both mother and developing baby. the American Collage of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) issued a statement in September 2023, criticizing the Trump administration’s advice to avoid Tylenol as a “harmful and confusing message.” ACOG President Steven Fleischman emphasized that acetaminophen is “essential” for managing conditions like fever, headaches (a sign of preeclampsia), and pain during pregnancy.
Untreated fever, particularly in the first trimester, is linked to an increased risk of miscarriage, birth defects (including neural tube defects, congenital heart defects, and oral clefts), and premature birth. Untreated pain can contribute to maternal depression, anxiety, and high blood pressure. These risks are supported by research dating back over a decade, including a 2014 review in Pediatrics highlighting the potential negative impact of maternal fever on fetal health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also acknowledges a link between fever during pregnancy and adverse outcomes,including birth defects.
MotherToBaby, a nonprofit providing information on medication and pregnancy, warns that even a fever-induced increase in body temperature carries risks, including a small chance of birth defects, and some studies suggest a possible association with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or autism.
While some studies have explored potential links between acetaminophen and neurodevelopmental disorders, medical organizations maintain that the dangers of untreated fever and pain far outweigh these theoretical concerns. Christopher Zahn, ACOG’s chief of clinical practise, stated that avoiding treatment when acetaminophen is medically indicated is “far more perilous than theoretical concerns based on inconclusive reviews of conflicting science.”
Kenvue, the parent company of Tylenol, asserts that acetaminophen is “the safest pain reliever” option available during pregnancy. they argue that avoiding it forces pregnant women to either endure perhaps harmful conditions or risk using less safe alternatives.
tylenol itself responded to the recent attention by reiterating ACOG’s position and emphasizing the importance of consulting a healthcare professional. The company’s message highlighted that a doctor is best equipped to advise on medication use based on individual health needs.
Our Ruling:
Trump’s claim that there’s “no downside” to avoiding Tylenol during pregnancy is demonstrably false. The risks associated with untreated fevers and pain during pregnancy are well-documented and significant. Acetaminophen is considered a safe and frequently enough necessary medication for managing these conditions, and avoiding it can pose greater dangers than any theoretical risks associated with the drug itself.
We rate Trump’s statement Pants on Fire!
