No well-conducted scientific studies have proven that paracetamol use during pregnancy is a cause for autism. The largest and most rigorous study to date is from Sweden and involved over 2.4 million children. It found no evidence of increased risk of autism in children whose mothers used paracetamol during pregnancy. Research shows genetic factors may explain most of the risk for autism. Additionally, the withholding of paracetamol during pregnancy has potential to produce harm to both mother & baby, for example when it is being used to treat maternal fever or pain.
The TGA continues to class paracetamol as a category A medication for use in pregnancy. We recommend referring to the following statement from RANZCOG for further information: Paracetamol Use in Pregnancy Not Linked to Autism or ADHD, RANZCOG Asserts
Your anaesthetist will be happy to discuss any concerns around paracetamol use & if there is any change to these recommendations on the basis of new evidence or advice.
The ASA is committed to supporting evidence-based healthcare & ensuring that pregnant women receive the highest standard of care.