paracetamol is safe in pregnancy and there is NO proven risk of increased autism in children as a result of its use

Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking paracetamol for adults

Brand names: Disprol, Hedex, Medinol, Panadol

Paracetamol and pregnancy

Paracetamol is the first choice of painkiller if you’re pregnant. It’s commonly taken during pregnancy and does not harm your baby.

Paracetamol and breastfeeding

You can take normal doses of paracetamol if you’re breastfeeding.

Paracetamol is a first-choice painkiller during breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in very small amounts. The amount of paracetamol your baby gets is far less than what they would get from a dose of paracetamol given to them directly.

It has been used during breastfeeding for many years without any negative effects on children.

Always read the instructions that come with the medicine.

Paracetamol and fertility

There’s no good evidence to suggest that taking paracetamol will reduce fertility in either men or women.

Find out more about how paracetamol can affect you and your baby on the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS) website.

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Is paracetamol linked to autism?

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority (MHRA) has confirmed taking paracetamol during pregnancy remains safe and there is no evidence it causes autism in children.

See the MHRA statement on taking paracetamol during pregnancy on GOV.UK

Updated: 23 September 2025