Breastfeeding mothers are constantly being told to watch what they eat, drink, and do, but rarely are they warned about something that lurks in many homes: acetaminophen, better known as Tylenol®.

Recent research has raised concerns about acetaminophen in breast milk and its potential effects on infant health. For decades, Tylenol® has been marketed as the go-to “safe” pain reliever for pregnant and breastfeeding women. But recent research is raising red flags. Studies link acetaminophen to an increased risk of childhood asthma, allergies, and potentially even neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

In fact, multiple findings now suggest that early acetaminophen exposure could play a significant role in many cases of ASD. Add to this the FDA’s reports of rare but severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and a troubling pattern begins to emerge: this widely trusted drug may not be as safe as many believe.

So why does Tylenol® still dominate medicine cabinets? Experts say it offers a psychological comfort: it gives parents the “feeling of mastery” because of how it is marketed. That illusion of control may come at a cost.

Thankfully, science has been working on a promising solution- the “Super-Bra”. 

Researchers at USC have developed a groundbreaking wearable tool: a non-invasive bra pad that can detect drugs in breast milk- no lab work required. Nicknamed the “Super Bra,” this device combines smart materials and high-tech chemistry into an everyday garment.

The bra has two main parts:

1. A graphene sensor

a. Graphene is a super thin, strong material that can detect molecules.

2. Microfluidic paper channels

a. These are tiny paper strips that help move and test small amounts of breast milk.

The Super Bra uses a technique called square wave voltammetry to measure acetaminophen levels in breast milk. While it may sound complex, it simply involves sending small electrical pulses through the milk—if acetaminophen is present, it triggers a specific reaction that the sensor can detect. It’s sensitive enough to detect acetaminophen in the 10 to 600 micromolar range, which covers all relevant doses. It works with breast milk from 1 to 12 months postpartum, and remains accurate even in the presence of other medications like amoxicillin. There are two usage modes: a single-use check before feeding, and a continuous monitoring mode that can track drug levels throughout the day.

This marks the first-ever on-body sensor for breast milk- no complicated lab equipment needed. It’s a scientific marvel with huge implications for maternal and infant health. The only catch? It’s not commercially available yet.

Still, the “Super Bra” is a sign of what’s possible when we combine innovation with real-world needs. For breastfeeding mothers navigating the complexity of modern medicine, that’s a win worth celebrating.

Share this information with your family and friends. Remember to follow us on social media or sign up for our email alerts for regular updates. Always seek the help of a medical professional, this is not medical advice.

Catie’s Cause exists to build awareness leading to less injuries and death from use of acetaminophen while encouraging wellness practices.

Hemanya is a student at the University of Virginia majoring in Global Public Health on the pre-medical track. She is interested in combining public health education and research into clinical practice and community outreach. Hemanya served as an intern for Catie’s Cause in 2024 and continues to serve as a volunteer periodically.