Is it safe to take acetaminophen during pregnancy?
Yes, acetaminophen is safe to take for pain and fever when you’re pregnant. Headaches, fever, and pain are important to treat during pregnancy. Some problems, especially fever, can be dangerous for both you and your fetus. Taking acetaminophen as directed by your ob-gyn can keep fever, headaches, and pain under control.
You may have heard claims about acetaminophen being linked to autism or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This has not been proven by science. The highest-quality research studies show there is no evidence that acetaminophen causes autism.
Researchers have studied the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy for more than two decades. Their research shows that acetaminophen continues to be safe for a woman and her fetus when used correctly. Always let your ob-gyn know if you want to use acetaminophen, especially if you want to take it for headaches. Headaches can sometimes be a sign of preeclampsia, a condition that can develop in pregnancy and needs immediate medical attention.
Acetaminophen is also safe to take during the postpartum period and while breastfeeding. Talk with your ob-gyn about whether and how much to take, and let them know if you’re taking any other over-the-counter medication that contains acetaminophen.
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GoPublished: September 2025
Last reviewed: September 2025
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