Caffeine Effects on Pregnant Women
Coffee and other beverages containing caffeine are a major source of pleasure and comfort for many throughout their daily routines. If you are pregnant, however, should you still drink coffee? This discussion will explore the potential risks and effects of drinking coffee when pregnant and provide guidance for expecting mothers on how to stay as safe as possible.
Caffeine is classified as a drug and can pass through the placenta to the fetus. It can affect fetal growth, birth weight and can have other potential effects on the unborn baby. Despite this, studies have not found that pregnant women who drink moderate amounts of coffee (up to 200mg per day) are at higher risk for health issues. There are still potential risks for pregnant women to consider, however.
Potential Risks of Drinking Coffee When Pregnant
Excessive caffeine intake can cause problems during and after pregnancy. High amounts of caffeine crossing the placenta can cause restricted blood flow to the baby and, as a result, may lead to a decreased oxygen and nutrient supply. Some research suggests that consuming more than 200mg per day during pregnancy can lead to a higher risk of miscarriage, premature birth and low birth weight. Caffeine has also been linked to an increased risk of stillbirth and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
In addition to fetal risks, drinking too much coffee when pregnant can lead to an increased risk of developing gestational hypertension and proteinuria. This could lead to severe cases of preeclampsia, which is dangerous for both the mother and baby. Caffeine has been known to cause increased episodes of anxiety and can cause an irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure. Finally, depending on the mother’s personal medical history, consuming coffee during pregnancy can also increase their risk for type 2 diabetes.
Recommendations for Pregnant Women
Given the potential risks of coffee consumption when pregnant, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends limiting caffeine intake to less than 200mg per day. This equates to two 5oz cups of coffee per day. Other food and drinks containing caffeine such as chocolate, tea, and energy drinks should also be avoided during pregnancy. Women should also be aware that some medications may also contain caffeine, so they should always consult their doctors before taking any medication.
In addition to limiting caffeine intake, pregnant women should practice general healthy habits throughout their pregnancy to reduce the risk of harm to the baby. These include: eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol, getting adequate rest and exercise, and attending regular checkups with a healthcare provider.
Alternatives to Coffee
If you are craving coffee when pregnant, you can satisfy your craving with decaffeinated coffee or tea, or with other non-caffeinated alternatives such as herbal teas and juices. Many of these drinks not only provide pleasure, but can also provide essential vitamins and minerals. There are also several caffeine free sodas on the market which can provide flavor and refreshment for expecting mothers.
If you are looking for other comfort drinks, there are several to choose from. Hot chocolate, warm milk, and hot apple cider are all popular choices and can provide warmth and relaxation. Peppermint tea is also a comforting option and is a great alternative if you are feeling nauseous. Other herbal teas, such as chamomile, are also a wonderful option to provide relaxation throughout pregnancy.
Coffee Consumption and Breastfeeding
It is important to note that caffeine can be passed to the baby through breastmilk, so consuming caffeine while breastfeeding should be done with caution. Although there is still limited research on the topics, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting caffeine intake to less than 300 mg per day for breastfeeding mothers. Therefore, it is best to continue to limit caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day when breastfeeding.
It is also important to note that coffee consumption can cause mild dehydration which can reduce a mother’s breastmilk supply. Therefore, coffee consumption should be accompanied by the consumption of other fluids such as water and non-caffeinated beverages.
The Verdict on Drinking Coffee When Pregnant
The main verdict is moderation. While drinking coffee while pregnant is not completely off the table, it is important to be aware of the risks and practice safe limits. Women should also make sure to be aware of other sources of caffeine, as well as alternatives to coffee to satisfy their cravings. Finally, both expecting and breastfeeding mothers should be aware of their daily caffeine consumption in order to make sure their babies are as safe as possible.
Coffee & Fertility
Coffee consumption has been linked to fertility issues in both men and women. Regular consumption of coffee can lead to hormonal changes which can make it more difficult to become pregnant. Studies have found that drinking more than 5 cups of coffee a day can decrease fertility in women by up to 50%. They have also found that drinking more than 5 cups of coffee can lead to a 15% decrease in sperm count in men.
Caffeine has a diuretic effect, meaning that it can cause the body to lose more fluids than what is consumed, which can leave the body in a state of dehydration. Dehydration can further decrease fertility, as dehydration can disrupt the body’s hormone balance. Moreover, caffeine can reduce blood flow to the uterus, making it harder for an embryo to implant.
Should You Quit Cold Turkey?
Quitting coffee entirely is not necessary for those trying to become pregnant or who are expecting. Doing so is not necessarily going to improve fertility, and may even cause unnecessary stress. Women and men should just be conscious of their caffeine intake, such as limiting it to 2-3 cups a day, and substituting with decaffeinated drinks such as herbal and green teas.
Are There More Alternatives?
Coffee is not the only source of caffeine. There are a wide array of caffeinated drinks and foods on the market today, so it is important to be mindful of your total caffeine intake which can include soda, energy drinks, tea, chocolate, and more. Read food and nutrition labels carefully to track how much caffeine you are consuming each day.
How to Monitor Caffeine Intake
It is always best to limit your caffeine intake to the recommended daily limits, and to make sure that you are aware of the total amount of caffeine you are consuming. To do so, women and men should some of the following actions: keep track of their daily caffeine intake, substitute with non-caffeinated drinks, limit caffeinated drinks to mornings only, reduce portion sizes, or switch to decaffeinated options.
