Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. In the U.S., about 1 in 31 children and 1 in 45 adults have been diagnosed with ASD.
Experts have found that multiple factors can cause ASD, including genetics, complications at birth, or being born to older parents. However, not everyone with similar risk factors will develop ASD and ASD affects each person differently.
Acetaminophen and ASD
Early research explored a potential relationship between high doses of acetaminophen and ASD. Acetaminophen is in a class of medications that relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever. High-dose acetaminophen may be given for fevers that are often associated with viruses, such as the flu, COVID, or H1N1. Yet, it’s unclear what role fevers and viruses in pregnancy may have in a baby developing ASD.
Current research indicates typical acetaminophen use is safe in pregnancy and not associated with an increased risk of ASD. Researchers recommend that studying more genetic and environmental factors is needed, as these are more likely to be associated with ASD.
What Medications Are Safe to Take?
During pregnancy, you may feel as though you need to avoid all medications because you’re concerned about possible harmful effects on your baby. However, you may get a mild headache, upset stomach, or have allergy symptoms. At your next prenatal visit, ask your provider for a list of safe, over-the-counter medications for these common issues.
Your provider may adjust the medications recommended to you based on your medical or surgical history. Therefore, check-in with your provider and send them information on medication labels before taking any new medicine.
What Medications Should Be Avoided?
Generally, avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, during pregnancy. Taking NSAIDs while pregnant can lead to miscarriage, preterm birth, or kidney problems for your baby. Also be aware of combination over-the-counter medications often used for cold symptoms or to manage headaches.
Aspirin vs. Ibuprofen vs. Acetaminophen
It’s important to distinguish between acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin as they are commonly used in over-the-counter medications but have different risks during pregnancy.
Aspirin is an NSAID that may be taken during pregnancy at a low dose (typically 81 mg) or for a short period of time to prevent high blood pressure or blood clots. It’s best if you only take the dose recommended by your pregnancy care provider.
Ibuprofen is a widely available over-the-counter medication used for pain and inflammation, a common cause for swelling. Naproxen relieves symptoms such as inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. It’s only available through a prescription by your provider. The FDA recommends avoiding use of NSAIDs in pregnancy at 20 weeks or later.
Acetaminophen is another common over-the-counter medication used for pain as well as to reduce fever. It’s usually safe during pregnancy for headaches, low back pain, low grade fever, and other aches or mild pain. Talk to your provider about taking acetaminophen.
When Should You Call Your Provider?
At your prenatal appointments, ask your provider how they want you to reach them if you experience a symptom that you haven’t had during your current pregnancy. For example, if you have a fever more than 100.4 degrees (during your pregnancy or postpartum period) or if you have a headache or back pain and your symptoms continue to worsen.
Feel Empowered
It’s likely that you may experience seasonal allergies, occasional headaches, or cold symptoms unrelated to your pregnancy. Try these prevention strategies to decrease your chance of catching the common cold or managing it early on:
- Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily
- Sleep 6-8 hours at night
- Eat foods and snacks that are rich in fiber and high in nutrients
- Wash your hands frequently
- Avoid being around anyone who is sick
- Purchase a thermometer to take your temperature
Reach out to your pregnancy care provider as questions or concerns come up about any medication or symptom that concerns you, no matter how minor. Approach your baby’s pediatrician similarly once they’re born to ask questions about recommended or prescribed medications.
Maria Meyer, MS, APRN-CNP, WHNP-BC, is a board-certified women’s health nurse practitioner. She has years of experience taking care of low- and high-risk pregnant patients and their families. She’s also adjunct nursing faculty at the University of Central Oklahoma, Oklahoma City Community College, and the University of Oklahoma.
Kathryn M. L. Konrad, PhD, RNC-OB, LCCE, FACCE, is a nurse researcher and educator. Her experience includes labor and delivery, childbirth education, birth advocacy, and nursing education. Dr. Konrad’s research centers on community support to address maternal mortality and maternity care deserts. She has served on the board of directors for BirthNetwork National and Lamaze International and was inducted as a Fellow in the Academy of Certified Childbirth Educators in 2011.
