Taking OTC Painkillers During Pregnancy Associated with Male Infertility in Baby

More than half of pregnant women in the Western world report taking over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers, such as Tylenol, Ibuprofen and Aspirin, but some of these drugs are known hormone disrupters and have been associated with the abnormal development of male sexual organs. In a European study, 491 mothers were asked about their use of OTC painkillers during their pregnancy and pediatricians assessed the male babies for abnormal sexual organ development. It was found that the use of OTC painkillers was dose-dependently associated with congenitally absent or undescended testicles. In particular, use during the second trimester increased the risk. This risk was further increased after the simultaneous use of different types of painkillers."A single [acetaminophen] tablet (500 milligrams) contains more endocrine disruptor potency than the combined exposure to the ten most prevalent of the currenty known environmental endocrine disruptors during the whole pregnancy," said lead researcher Henrik Leffers.

This study illustrates how even convnentional medicine's long standing beliefs about what is safe during pregnancy can turn out to be untrue, with potentially devastating long-term consequences. Unfortunately even herbs and supplements can fall into this category, which is why you should always consult your naturopathic doctor if you are considering taking herbs or supplements during your pregnancy. 

If you are experiencing discomfort or symptoms due to your pregnancy, as your naturopathic doctor, I take the utmost care in addressing your health and the health of your baby by using dietary measures, acupuncture and other conservative, but effective measures to ensure that you have a healthy pregnancy.  

Reference: Human Reproduction. 2011 Jan;26(1):235-44. Epub 2010 Nov 8. Intrauterine exposure to mild analgesics is a risk factor for development of male reproductive disorders in human and rat.