Coffee, in all its many forms, is the go-to morning pick-me-up for many people around the world. But how does it really affect our fertility? Scientists have been exploring the potential effects of drinking coffee on fertility for decades. The conclusion? Drinking coffee when trying to conceive is tricky.
On one hand, some researchers believe that consuming moderate amounts of coffee, even up to the equivalent of two cups of coffee per day, can have little to no effect on a couple’s chances of pregnancy. On the other hand, some believe that it is best avoided altogether, and that even small amounts have a negative effect on fertility.
According to a study published in 2019, moderate caffeine intake which is 300 mg/day (three cups of coffee) carries a 3.1-fold increase in time to pregnancy compared to no caffeine intake. The same study also showed that while caffeine concentrations of up to 300 mg/day can lead to a longer time of conception, concentrations of beyond 300 mg/day can lead to a decrease in the probability of pregnancy.
“It is difficult to show with certainty that there is a clearly defined safe dose of caffeine when trying to conceive,” says Dr. Katherine Wilson, an obstetrician-gynecologist. She does, however, suggest that women trying to conceive maintain a caffeine intake of 200 mg/day or less.
Experts believe the main issue is that coffee has the potential to disrupt female hormones and our body’s endocrine system, which can impact ovulation and lead to delays in or difficulty with pregnancy. It is not only coffee that can lead to disruption of hormones, though; tea, cola drink, chocolate and energy drinks can have the same effect when consumed in excess.
Effects on Males
As with many studies on fertility, the effects of coffee consumption when trying to conceive have primarily been evaluated in females, but research has also suggested that coffee may have a negative effect on a man’s fertility.
In accordance to an Italian-led randomized controlled trial, the consumption of caffeine was found to reduce sperm count by almost 30%. This study included 24 young men ranging in age between 18 and 30, who were divided into two groups. The resulting data as quantified by careful sperm analysis showed that men in the caffeine-consuming group had significantly lower sperm count in comparison to the placebo group.
Coffee Alternatives
One of the main benefits from cutting coffee out of our diets is revealing the many beverages and foods we can rely on for for that extra pick-me-up instead. Some great alternatives that do not contain caffeine include rooibos tea, guayusa, herbal teas, and formulated, holistic teas. Matcha is an excellent choice and it has the potential to provide many of the same benefits as coffee with its steady supply of energy, focus and antioxidants.
The Power of Positive Thinking
Psychological research shows that approaching fertility with positive mental and emotional focus can result in positive outcomes. Therefore, it is importnat to know that positive emotion and attitude towards trying to conceive could help mitigate the effects of caffeine and increase the chances of becoming pregnant.
The power of positive thinking can have huge effects on the body and even help to counteract the effects of caffeine on fertility. Therefore, it is essential to remain positive and proactive when trying to conceive, while being aware of the potential risk associated with excessive intake of caffeine.
Moon Cycle and Nutrition
Maintaining healthy habits like following an optimal lunar cycle for fertility and eating a supportive, nutrient-dense diet might also help increase a couple’s chances of conception.
Experimenting with traditional cycle charting practices from around the world, such as Fertility Awareness, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine can help couples learn about and respect the cycle of a woman’s body and how her hormones can vary from month to month. This can be a helpful tool to help couples identify their most fertile days and understand when conception is most likely to occur.
Keeping caffeine consumption to a moderate level and eating well when trying to conceive can also have positive effects on fertility. Eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and other whole-foods can help ensure that both the male and the female body get all the nutrients they need to support fertility throughout the conception process.
Reducing Stress and Connecting
Stress and lifestyle can play a role in conception. Taking time to deeply connect with your partner, getting regular exercise, practicing meditation, and implementing relaxation techniques can help to reduce stress and create a sense of balance in the body. When taking the time to relax, it can be easier for couples to reach a place of peace when trying to conceive.
In addition to reducing stress, it is important for couples to focus on connecting and cultivating a sense of togetherness. Taking time to get away together, having uninterrupted conversations and remembering to be present with one another can help couples to connect emotionally and reduce stress.
Achieving Balance
In conclusion, it is important to keep in mind that striving for balance and creating a healthy lifestyle when trying to conceive is key. Making small adjustments, taking time for self-care, and creating a supportive environment can go a long way in terms of increasing the chances of conceiving.
It is hard to define a specific cutoff for coffee intake when trying to conceive since it depends on many variables, such as diet and lifestyle, but keeping it to a moderate level and taking the time to focus on emotional as well as physical wellbeing can help couples on their journey.
