US President Donald Trump has once again made controversial health statements, this time regarding the use of paracetamol during early pregnancy. Trump’s comments, suggesting a link between paracetamol use and the increase in autism cases, have raised concerns among scientists and healthcare professionals.
In his remarks, Trump advised pregnant women to avoid using the common painkiller unless absolutely necessary, stating that they should endure pain rather than rely on medication. The medical community has swiftly refuted Trump’s claims, with many mothers criticizing his message as harmful and fear-inducing.
Ana Bonasera, a mother of five and an ADHD coach, expressed her dismay at Trump’s statements, emphasizing the need for acceptance and celebration of neurodiversity instead of promoting stigma and fear. Ana, who has four children with autism and suspects her toddler daughter is neurodivergent, believes that Trump’s comments place undue blame on mothers and perpetuate unnecessary anxiety.
Notably, there has been an 800% surge in autism diagnoses over the past two decades, according to research published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry. This increase is attributed not only to a real rise in cases but also to improved early detection methods that identify individuals who may have previously gone undiagnosed.
Many experts point out that autism may manifest differently in girls compared to boys, with girls often masking their symptoms to fit in with their peers. This masking behavior can delay diagnosis until later in life, highlighting the importance of recognizing diverse presentations of autism.
Contrary to Trump’s claims, NHS guidelines recommend paracetamol as a safe option for pain and fever relief during pregnancy, as it poses no harm to the baby. The NHS advises pregnant individuals to use paracetamol as the first-line treatment for pain and high fever, emphasizing its safety profile for expectant mothers.
Critics, including mothers like Frida, have expressed frustration over Trump’s unsubstantiated remarks, highlighting the essential role of paracetamol in managing fever during pregnancy. Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Wes Streeting has unequivocally dismissed Trump’s assertions, emphasizing the importance of relying on medical evidence and professional advice rather than unfounded claims. Streeting underscored the need to trust healthcare experts and scientific research in making informed decisions regarding maternal health and well-being.