For many people, coffee is part of their daily routine. It’s a drink that provides an energy boost, improves alertness, and helps people get through the day.

However, when you’re pregnant, the question of whether or not to drink coffee becomes more complicated. Many women wonder if it is safe to continue their coffee habit during pregnancy. Here, we will explore the effects of caffeine on pregnancy and whether it is safe to drink coffee while pregnant.

What is Caffeine?

Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant that is commonly found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and other products.

It’s a type of drug that affects the central nervous system and can help to reduce fatigue, enhance mental alertness, and improve mood. Caffeine is also a diuretic, which means it can increase urine production and cause dehydration.

How Much Caffeine Can You Safely Consume During Pregnancy?

Caffeine is not entirely safe for consumption during pregnancy, although it is only in very high doses it can increase the risk of miscarriages or preterm birth.

Health authorities such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Pregnancy Association, recommend that pregnant women consume no more than 200 milligrams of caffeine per day, or a little over one 8-ounce cup of coffee.

Effects of Caffeine During Pregnancy

While there is no conclusive evidence that drinking a moderate amount of caffeine during pregnancy is harmful, some research has shown that it may have a negative impact on fetal development, depending on its dosage.

Here are some of the ways that caffeine might affect your pregnancy:.

Increased Risk of Miscarriage

Studies have shown that consuming high doses of caffeine during early pregnancy, i.e. at least 200 milligrams or more per day, can increase the risk of miscarriage, especially in the early stages.

Caffeine might also interfere with the normal functions of the placenta. Women who have a history of at least two miscarriages should consider avoiding caffeine altogether during pregnancy.

Delayed Conception

For women trying to conceive, consuming caffeine may decrease their chance of getting pregnant.

Studies have shown that women who consume 200 milligrams or more per day had a higher risk of taking longer to conceive, compared to women who did not consume any caffeinated beverages.

Low Birth Weight

Consuming high levels of caffeine during pregnancy may increase the risk of delivering a baby with a low birth weight.

A low birth weight baby could develop health complications after birth such as respiratory distress syndrome, hypoglycemia, and an increased risk of infection. Mothers who consume high levels of caffeine during pregnancy may also be at risk of developing gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.

Decreased Iron Absorption

Drinking caffeinated beverages during a meal can interfere with iron absorption, which could lead to anemia in pregnancy. For pregnant women who have iron deficiency, it is best to avoid drinking coffee or tea with meals.

In Conclusion

Given the studies done, it is evident that caffeine has some effects on pregnancy when consumed at elevated levels.

While drinking an occasional cup of coffee is unlikely to be harmful, pregnant women are advised to limit their caffeine intake to less than 200 milligrams per day to avoid any potential risks.