Tylenol =/= Autism

President Trump's announcement linking acetaminophen use during pregnancy to autism is both perplexing and potentially detrimental to expectant mothers and their unborn children. As a recently retired OB/GYN and president of the Mile High Medical Society, an organization dedicated to health equity for over four decades and primarily representing the interests of Black and brown communities in Colorado, I am profoundly troubled by the ongoing spread of medical and scientific misinformation by federal agencies.

The Mile High Medical Society strongly advises patients to consult with their trusted healthcare providers to determine the best course of action for themselves and their families. Acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, has been safely used during pregnancy for pain relief and fever reduction. In contrast, other pain relief medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, have documented risks to neonatal health. While the effects of Tylenol on unborn children remain uncertain, it is well established that untreated high fevers during pregnancy can pose significant risks to both mother and child.

Dr. Johnny E Johnson Jr.