It’s undeniable that coffee is a favourite beverage for many. Some might even say it’s the lifeblood of modern day society. But what happens when the person who is consuming coffee is pregnant? Does drinking coffee while pregnant pose any danger to the baby?
First and foremost, lifestyle factors such as exercise, nutrition and sleep, have the potential to impact a pregnancy and the health of the unborn baby. The caffeinated beverage category includes coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks to name a few. These are the beverages of which experts advise pregnant women to practice moderation or abstain altogether. Generally, pregnant women would be well advised to limit their caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams per day. This limit is equivalent to one 12-ounce cup of coffee.
The effects of caffeine on the developing fetus are still under study. Research points to the conclusion that with moderate amounts of caffeine (less than 200 mg a day) can be consumed without posing a significant risk of adverse health effects during the first trimester. After that, pregnant women should avoid caffeine altogether, as studies have shown that larger amounts of caffeine can potentially be linked to fetal issues during the last 6 months of the pregnancy.
Studies have pointed to several health risks that are associated with higher levels of caffeine intake during pregnancy; these risks range from low birth weight to an increased risk of miscarriage and stillbirth among others. Some studies reported a potential link between caffeine consumption and an increased risk of miscarriages or early delivery. Although recent data from the noted charity-funded scientific research, does not suggest that caffeine consumption in pregnant women will part adversely affected the baby’s cognitive development.
Due to inconclusive evidence, pregnant women who enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in the morning may be able to continue to do so. If a pregnant woman does drink caffeine while pregnant, she may be able to cut down on her consumption and still have a healthy pregnancy. If reducing caffeine intake is not possible, pregnant women may consider switching to decaffeinated coffee and tea. However, there are other ingredients in these beverages that she should also bear in mind, such as calories, as caloric intake should also be taken into consideration when pregnant.
For women who are trying to conceive, it is generally recommended to limit caffeine intake, just in case. While the effects of caffeine while pregnant are still inconclusive, the safest option is to not have any caffeine at all during pregnancy. This can also serve to take the stress out and prevent a potential hazard out of the equation.
Baby’s Immunity
According to a study done in 2019, regarding moderate levels of caffeine intake amongst pregnant women, the caffeine did not appear to affect the child in the area of immune system development. Although the child’s immunity was unaffected, other physical parameters were still of potential concerns. Generally, it would probably be best for pregnant women to stay away from caffeine, simply for the fact that it is difficult to pinpoint exactly how much caffeine is safe for pregnant women to consume as it tends to vary in degrees.
Caffeine and Insomnia
It’s been noted that caffeine may have an impact on insomnia while pregnant, as caffeine is a stimulant and raises the heart rate and blood pressure. The resulting effect causes the body to produce too much stress hormones, which can lead to restlessness and insomnia. For some, this can be even worse if they tend to drink coffee later in the day and close to bedtime. Furthermore, not sleeping during pregnancy can be particularly dangerous, as it can lead to a decrease in the baby’s growth rate.
Caffeine and Bowel Movements
Caffeine can act as a laxative, either directly or indirectly, which can make you feel the urge to visit the restroom more often. For pregnant women, this can be particularly uncomfortable or at the least inconvenient. In some cases, habitual consumption of coffee during pregnancy can actually lead to constipation.
Caffeine and Weight Gain
Caffeine can create dehydration, which in turn can lead to weight gain. During pregnancy, this can be especially destructive because of the host of other conditions that can lead to dehydration. Most notably, these include nausea and morning sickness, which can lead to dehydration if left unchecked. Being careful with one’s hydration, besides reducing caffeine intake, can alleviate some of the ill effects of dehydration during pregnancy.
