
Paracetamol in Pregnancy: Are We Aware of the Risks?
Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen in the United States, is one of the most commonly used pain relievers worldwide. Often referred to as APAP or Tylenol, it is versatile and can be found in over 600 products designed to alleviate pain and reduce fever.
In particular, paracetamol is commonly used by pregnant women. Studies show that more than 50% of pregnant women use this medication during pregnancy. Recommendations about the use of paracetamol during pregnancy come from reputable health institutions like the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration), EMA (European Medicines Agency), and NHS (National Health Service) in the UK.
Recognized as Safe, But Is It Really?
According to information from the NHS website, paracetamol is considered safe to use during pregnancy. This further confirms its widespread acceptance in medical practice. But, the use of paracetamol during pregnancy also raises some concerns and doubts. Especially in light of research on its long-term effects on maternal and fetal health.
Paracetamol Passes Through the Placenta
Paracetamol is the first choice painkiller during pregnancy. It is commonly used and is said not to harm your baby. But is that really the case?
More studies suggest that prenatal exposure to paracetamol (APAP) may affect the development of the baby in the womb. These studies show potential risks. As a result, this increases the risk of certain neurodevelopmental, reproductive, and urogenital disorders. Paracetamol passes through the placenta and can be detected in the urine of newborns after prenatal exposure.
The Sensitivity of the Developing Brain

The developing human brain is particularly susceptible to toxic chemicals. Furthermore, critical windows of developmental sensitivity occur during pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood. During these sensitive life stages, even low concentrations of certain chemicals can cause permanent brain damage.
International Experts’ Warning from 2021
In an article published on PubMed in 2021, 91 international scientists, clinicians, and public health experts from around the world issued a statement:
“Pregnant women should be warned early in pregnancy to avoid using paracetamol (APAP). Its use should be medically justified. They should reduce exposure by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. As scientists, medical experts, and public health specialists, we are concerned about rising rates of neurological, urogenital, and reproductive disorders. Additionally, we are witnessing an alarming increase in the number of children with cognitive, educational, and/or behavioral problems. In this Consensus Statement, we summarize epidemiological studies. We also discuss animal research that has examined neurological, urogenital, and reproductive outcomes. These are linked to the use of paracetamol by mothers and newborns.”
Paracetamol Disrupts the Hormonal System
Chemicals that disrupt the hormonal system raise serious concerns. Studies have shown that paracetamol directly interferes with hormone-dependent processes. This is significant. Hormones play a key role in the development of the brain, reproductive system, and urinary system of the baby. Furthermore, paracetamol passes through both the placenta and the blood-brain barrier, which can disrupt these processes. During pregnancy, the body metabolizes paracetamol in a different way. This makes both the mother and the child more vulnerable to its harmful effects. Additionally, research suggests that exposure to paracetamol affect stem cells and damage the placenta.
Reproductive Development Risks
Observational studies suggest that prenatal exposure to paracetamol is linked to problems in reproductive development. It also affects neurobehavioral development in both sexes. In boys, exposure to paracetamol may increase the risk of disorders. Some disorders include undescended testes. Others include reduced distance between the anus and the base of the penis. These symptoms indicate abnormalities in sexual development and lead to future reproductive issues. In girls, this exposure may lead to earlier sexual maturation.
Neurological Disorders Risk

Studies suggest that prenatal exposure to paracetamol, even at low doses, increases the risk of neurodevelopmental problems. It may also lead to behavioral issues, such as ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. There might be speech delays (in girls) and a lower IQ. Furthermore, research indicates that the timing and duration of the mother’s use of the drug may be crucial. The highest risks are linked to exposure to APAP during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
For example, a study conducted between 2013 and 2020 evaluated 535 newborns. The study showed that higher exposure to paracetamol during the second trimester led to higher rates of ADHD problems. Additionally, higher cumulative exposure during pregnancy was linked to higher ADHD issues in children aged 2 and 3 years.
An article published in 2017 on PubMed suggests that prolonged use of paracetamol during pregnancy can increase the risk of ADHD. It may affect children. Prolonged use during pregnancy may heighten this risk. Moreover, the use can notably affect the probability. The risk may more than double.
Prolonged use of paracetamol by fathers before conception also impacted the occurrence of ADHD in offspring. This is even more shocking. This effect was observed with use lasting 29 days or more.
Summary:
Paracetamol exhibits many characteristics of a substance that disrupts the hormonal system. The exact mechanisms leading to these negative effects are not fully understood. However, there are serious reasons to exercise caution in its use, especially during pregnancy. Ultimately, the impact of paracetamol depends on the timing of exposure. Its effects may affect both the reproductive and neurological development of the child.
Do you know the impact of paracetamol on infants and young children? If you haven’t read my previous article, I highly encourage you to check it out! You’ll find many essential pieces of information that can be helpful in taking care of your little one’s health. Click here to read more! Share your experiences and opinions in the comments, and don’t forget to join me on Facebook.
Source:
Paracetamol use during pregnancy — a call for precautionary action – PMC (nih.gov)
Prenatal Exposure to Acetaminophen and Risk of ADHD – PMC (nih.gov)

