Pregnant women have many restrictions, especially when it comes to their diet and medication. A common over-the-counter pain reliever, acetaminophen, is no longer considered safe for pregnant women because it can affect the fetus. More than 91 health experts from several countries have published a statement in the journal of Endocrinology explain g the possible consequences.
How can acetaminophen affect babies in the womb?
The study found that this chemical substance, which has been considered safe to take during pregnancy for so long, could trigger reproductive and neurobehavioral abnormalities for the fetus. Both female and male fetuses can suffer developmental consequences inside the womb.
Further research is needed to determine just how much acetaminophen must be taken by pregnant mothers for babies to suffer negative consequences.
Possible side-effects of acetaminophen based o fetus gender
According to extensive research, health experts concluded that several side effects could occur for both genders, such as ADHD, autism, speech delay, and decreased IQ.
For boys, it could trigger reproductive disorders, undescended testicles, and others. Girls can go early into puberty.
Pregnant women should ask their medical provider before taking any medicine
Experts warn that pregnant women should be extra careful because acetaminophen is a common ingredient in so many medications, including over-the-counter ones such as cough syrup, allergy medicine, etc. A doctor can decide if these medications are necessary or if they can be replaced with something else. According to the European Medicines Agency, acetaminophen should be used in small doses during pregnancy.
The conjoint statement has been signed by medical experts from the U.K, the U.S, Brazil, Australia, Canada, Scotland, and other European Countries.
The FDA mentions other medicine that should be avoided during pregnancy, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It goes without saying that illicit opioids are also forbidden as they can cause severe harm to the fetus.
