Can You Take Tylenol While Pregnant?

Can you take Tylenol® while pregnant?

The quick answer is, generally, yes.

For the long answer, we turn to Ob/Gyn Salena Zanotti, MD.

Dr. Zanotti discusses what you need to know about using acetaminophen during your pregnancy.

Is Tylenol safe during pregnancy?

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), when used properly, acetaminophen is safe to take during pregnancy — both for you and the developing fetus.

Acetaminophen, like Tylenol® or paracetamol, is one of the most commonly used medications during pregnancy. You’re most likely to take it if you’re experiencing:

• Fevers
• Infections
• Migraines
• Acute or chronic pain

“We try to minimize taking any medication in pregnancy,” Dr. Zanotti notes. “But if you have severe symptoms and need a painkiller or fever reducer, acetaminophen is the safest available option.”

If it’s necessary to take acetaminophen, check the medication packaging to be sure it doesn’t contain any other ingredients.

Also, keep in mind that the recommended max dosage for adults is 4,000 milligrams (mg) per day. If you have certain health conditions — like liver or kidney disease — you may not be able to safely take doses that high. So, be sure to talk to your Ob/Gyn about dosing, too.

Wondering about acetaminophen alternatives? Healthcare providers don’t recommend taking ibuprofen (Advil®) and naproxen (Aleve®) while pregnant, because they may affect fetal development.

While ongoing studies are important, the best available scientific evidence has not shown a link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism. But if you’re pregnant or planning a pregnancy, share your questions and concerns with your provider.

“Acetaminophen is still the safest known drug to take during pregnancy for problems like fever and pain,” Dr. Zanotti confirms. “And it’s OK to turn to medication for help when symptoms are making your daily life difficult.”

Risks of not using acetaminophen

Taking acetaminophen when needed can decrease the potential for serious complications during your pregnancy. That’s why many healthcare providers recommend deciding whether medication is appropriate on a case-by-case basis.

“When you’re pregnant, it’s riskier to have an untreated fever than it is to take acetaminophen,” Dr. Zanotti stresses. “And with some conditions, taking limited amounts of acetaminophen might actually be your safest bet.”

Consult your doctor

If you’re unsure what medications you can take during pregnancy or need help understanding your options, talk to your healthcare provider. When you do, be sure to share everything you’re taking. That means prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, supplements and more.

General guidance can only take you so far. Your Ob/Gyn can offer advice that’s tailor-made with your medical history, needs and personal preferences in mind. Whether you take acetaminophen during your pregnancy is your choice to make. And you don’t have to make it alone.