The Big Story Trump, Tylenol and medical misogyny
Sep 26, 2025
This week, Caryn Ceolin chats with Sabina Vohra-Miller, a Doctor of Public Health candidate and founder of Unambiguous Science. They dive into President Trump’s alarming claim that Tylenol during pregnancy may cause autism, which contradicts decades of research. Sabina highlights the risks of dehumanizing messages telling pregnant people to 'tough it out' amidst fear and societal pressures. They explore the need for accurate medical guidance and advocacy in response to misleading narratives, urging individuals to consult trusted healthcare providers for personalized advice.
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No Proven Link Between Tylenol And Autism
- High-quality evidence shows no causal link between acetaminophen in pregnancy and autism or ADHD.
- Major obstetrics and health bodies internationally reaffirm acetaminophen's safety when used appropriately.
Why Observational Studies Mislead
- Correlation does not equal causation, especially in pregnancy research where randomized trials are unethical.
- Large sibling-control studies that adjust for familial confounders find no association between prenatal acetaminophen and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Weigh Risks Of Treating Vs Not Treating
- Do consider the risks of untreated fever and pain during pregnancy when weighing medication choices.
- Use acetaminophen when medically indicated because untreated symptoms can harm both pregnant people and fetuses.