WWDA: Stop policing pregnant bodies with bad science.
“Autism does not need a ‘cure’ it needs understanding, acceptance and support. Stoking fear about autism harms Autistic and neurodivergent people and fuels discrimination,” said Sophie Cusworth, CEO of Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA).
“Recent claims by Donald Trump linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to autism are false and dangerous. Beyond the misinformation, this rhetoric acts as structural violence, another attempt tocontrol pregnant people’s bodies, restrict safe care, and intensify gendered blame.”
“Women and gender-diverse people with disability already face high rates of violence and medical gaslighting. Debunked pregnancy myths pile guilt onto mothers, deter essential care like fever control, and set inclusion back. Australian health authorities and global regulators are clear: there is no credible evidence that paracetamol causes autism when used as directed.”
“Centre evidence and Autistic voices. Stop blaming women. Stop platforming misinformation. Invest in accessible healthcare and violence-prevention that uphold our rights and dignity.”
– Sophie Cusworth, CEO, Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA)
