Pregnancy Paracetamol Linked to Daughters' Ovaries
Expectant parents using paracetamol should discuss timing and dose with their care team as researchers call for guideline review.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Pregnancy
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A study published in Human Reproduction Open links paracetamol use during pregnancy to smaller ovaries and fewer follicles in daughters, based on observational data. Researchers call for revision of paracetamol-in-pregnancy guidelines and clearer clinical conversations about medication need.
Why it matters
For expectant parents, paracetamol (acetaminophen) is among the few pain and fever medicines long considered routine in pregnancy, so this observational finding raises questions about when and how much to use it. The study does not establish cause, but it adds to a debate that intensified after a September 2025 warning from President Donald Trump against paracetamol use in pregnancy.
The study followed 685 pregnant women and examined 302 daughters at a mean age of 106 days, with a further 1,210 girls tracked into adolescence. Associations were seen with about 40% smaller ovarian volume and 23% fewer follicles, and maternal doses stayed below the 4,000mg daily maximum.
The players
Margit Bistrup Fischer
Lead researcher from Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen who led the study on paracetamol and daughters' ovarian development.
Donald Trump
Current President of the United States, who in September 2025 warned pregnant women against taking paracetamol.
The details
Expectant mothers reported their paracetamol use at two-week intervals, and urine samples were also analysed. Headaches or migraines were the most common reason for use, followed by other pain, particularly musculoskeletal. Early use before the 17th week was linked to smaller ovarian and uterine volume in daughters, while use from the 17th week onward was linked to fewer follicles. Because the study is observational, these are associations rather than proven effects.
Timeline
September 2025: Trump warned pregnant women against taking paracetamol at a press conference.
Some months later: A review study confirmed paracetamol in pregnancy does not increase autism risk.
26 October 2026: Study findings on paracetamol and daughters' fertility were reported.
The Home Front
This development sits within the ongoing debate over paracetamol guidance that followed the September 2025 presidential warning. A later review confirming no increased autism risk shows the evidence remains contested in both directions.
If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, talk with your obstetrician or midwife before changing how you use paracetamol, and ask what dose and timing suits your situation. Keep a simple log of any medicines you take so you can review it at prenatal visits.
The takeaway
The study is observational and shows association, not cause, so it should prompt a conversation with your care team rather than a unilateral change. Keep your prenatal provider informed of every medicine you take, and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.
Further reading
For more context on medication safety during pregnancy, explore our Pregnancy coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Star.
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