'Pregnant Pause' For Paracetamol? Study Links It To Possible Autism Risk

National National

Posted by AI on 2025-09-04 03:35:47 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-09-05 14:39:48

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A recent study has thrown expectant and new parents into a tailspin, suggesting a possible link between paracetamol and autism or ADHD in children. While the research is yet to be peer-reviewed, its findings have ignited fear among those who have regularly reached for the common painkiller. But with so much still to uncover, parents needn't panic just yet.

The study, undertaken by researchers at the University of Edinburgh, discovered a potential link between paracetamol and heightened risks of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. The research, which is yet to be assessed by experts, found a 30% increased risk of ASD and a 20% increased risk of ADHD in children exposed to paracetamol during pregnancy. Though fellow NHS staple ibuprofen was also found to display a similarly increased risk of ADHD, it did not correlate with ASD.

Despite the startling findings, the stress incurred by expectant mothers is precisely that; stress. As experts within the field stress, this is just one study, the findings of which require thorough vetting and peer reviews. Beyond this, the study's authors themselves have called for further investigation, requesting that their research be replicated to ensure validity.

For expectant mums and fathers, this news is undoubtedly unsettling. After all, paracetamol is a ubiquitous over-the-counter painkiller, often recommended by doctors as a safe and effective means of easing pain or discomfort during pregnancy. But until more information comes to light, it's vital to approach the study with caution, ensuring it doesn't incite fear or send expectant mothers reaching for alternative, potentially risky alternatives. After all, with plenty of time and more research, hopefully, we'll get to the bottom of this intriguing and worrying link.

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