Prolonged Paracetamol Use In Pregnancy Warning

Pregnant women should limit their paracetamol intake as this could affect the reproductive health of their sons, says study.

15:37 22 May 2015

Scientists from the University of Edinburgh, who have performed an experiment on mice, found that paracetamol interrupts the production of testosterone when given for seven days. The hormone is the key to the development of male reproductive organs. 

 

This study sparks interest as it was previously confirmed by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency that paracetamol is one of the few painkillers generally considered safe if expectant mothers absolutely need to take it. 

 

Dr Rod Mitchell, the lead researcher, said: "This study adds to existing evidence that prolonged use of paracetamol in pregnancy may increase the risk of reproductive disorders in male babies.

 

"We would advise that pregnant women should follow current guidance that the painkiller be taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time."

 

However, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health says paracetamol is an important treatment that should not be avoided altogether.

Dr Martin Ward-Platt, spokesman for the organisation, added: "The study specifically relates to paracetamol use over at least several days.

"There are times where one or two doses is needed to treat one-off episodes of fever, for example.

 

"Fever during pregnancy can be harmful to the developing embryo, with links to a significant increase in the rates of spina bifida and heart malformations, so small doses of paracetamol are sometimes necessary."