A major international study has found no evidence that using paracetamol during pregnancy increases the risk of autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or intellectual disability in children. The findings, published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women’s Health, represent the most comprehensive analysis of the issue to date and provide strong reassurance to expectant mothers worldwide.

The research was led by Professor Asma Khalil of City St George’s, University of London, and is described as a “gold standard” systematic review and meta-analysis. Scientists examined data from 43 previous studies, covering more than 262,000 children assessed for autism, over 335,000 for ADHD, and approximately 406,000 for intellectual disability. This large sample size adds significant weight to the conclusions.

According to the authors, maternal use of paracetamol does not raise the likelihood of neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Instead, they suggest that earlier concerns may have stemmed from genetic factors, shared family traits, or the underlying medical conditions—such as infection or fever—that prompted paracetamol use during pregnancy.

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Paracetamol remains widely recommended by health authorities as the safest option for treating pain and fever during pregnancy. Medical experts stress that leaving high fever or severe pain untreated can pose clear and well-established risks to both the mother and the developing baby, making appropriate treatment essential.

The findings also directly contradict public claims made last year by US President Donald Trump, who warned pregnant women against using paracetamol. Those remarks were criticised at the time by medical organisations around the world as lacking scientific evidence, a view now reinforced by this extensive review.

Health experts say the new study should help put an end to lingering misinformation and reassure pregnant women. UK health officials continue to advise that paracetamol is safe to use during pregnancy when taken as directed, emphasizing that evidence-based guidance—not speculation—should guide maternal healthcare decisions.

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