Science trumps opinion
Dr Danielle McMullen
AMA President
In the hours following US President Donald Trump’s press conference linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to autism, the global medical community mobilised swiftly. Doctors, scientists and public health experts around the world stepped forward to correct the record – calmly and clearly explaining why such claims are both false and dangerous.
The scientific consensus is clear: while we don’t fully understand the interplay of genetic and environmental factors contributing to autism, there has been no demonstrated causal link between antenatal paracetamol use and autism. While some observational studies have reported associations, these do not hold up under more rigorous methods – such as sibling comparison analyses.
A Swedish study involving more than 2.4 million children found no increased risk of autism, ADHD or intellectual disability when comparing siblings exposed to paracetamol in utero with those who were not. The study also indicated earlier associations may have been driven by confounding factors, including the underlying health conditions for which the mothers were taking paracetamol in the first place.
Association is not causation; and for a world leader to suggest otherwise is not just irresponsible, it’s harmful.
Paracetamol remains the recommended treatment for pain and fever during pregnancy when used as directed. In Australia, it is classified as a Category A medication, meaning it has been taken by a large number of pregnant women without any proven increase in the frequency of malformations or other harmful effects on the fetus. The obvious risk posed by Trump’s comments is that pregnant women may turn to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs, which carry well-documented risks during pregnancy.
Pregnancy is already a time of heightened vulnerability and anxiety for expectant mothers. Introducing unfounded fears during this delicate period can have devastating consequences. The idea that women should “tough it out” – as Trump suggested – ignores the very real dangers of untreated fever in pregnancy, which has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and certain neural tube defects.
“ In the wake of President Trump’s comments, many families shared their stories. More than one mother recounted how her adult child with autism called to ask whether she had taken paracetamol during pregnancy. It’s a poignant reminder of how misinformation can sow doubt in even the most loving relationships.
Beyond the medical misinformation, there is another layer of harm in the rhetoric: the implication that autism is something to be feared or avoided. This kind of language stigmatises neurodiverse people and undermines decades of progress in understanding and supporting people with autism. Autism is not a tragedy – it is a neurodevelopmental condition that shapes how individuals experience the world. People with autism bring richness, diversity and insight to our communities, and they deserve respect, support and inclusion.
In the wake of Trump’s comments, many families shared their stories – some heartbreaking, others defiant. More than one mother recounted how her adult child with autism called to ask whether she had taken paracetamol during pregnancy. It’s a poignant reminder of how deeply words can wound, and how misinformation can sow doubt in even the most loving relationships.
Leaders carry immense responsibility. Their words ripple outward, shaping public perception, influencing behaviour and, in this case, potentially jeopardising the health of pregnant women and their babies. We may not yet fully understand what causes autism, but we do know that guilt and fear will not bring us closer to answers. What will help is rigorous science, compassionate care, and a commitment to truth.
To every parent raising a child with autism: you have done nothing wrong. To every expectant mother managing pain or fever: paracetamol remains a safe and effective option. And to every person living with autism: thank you for the perspective, strength and beauty you bring to our world.
Medical advice should never be shaped by politics or fear. It should be grounded in evidence, delivered with empathy, and focused on empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. That’s the standard we must uphold together.