Can You Drink Coffee While Pregnant? A Guide for Moms-to-Be

Last updated on January 15th, 2024 at 06:08 pm

Can you drink coffee while pregnant?
The answer is yes. But at the same time, it DEPENDS!!!

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. It is consumed by millions of people every day and is often considered a staple in many people’s diets.

However, when it comes to pregnancy, many women are unsure whether or not it is safe to drink coffee while pregnant.

In this article, let us explore the topic of coffee and pregnancy and answer the question: can you drink coffee while pregnant?

The short answer is yes, pregnant women can drink coffee. However, it is important to watch your consumption of coffee, and caffeine intake overall, during pregnancy.

Caffeine can affect your pregnancy and your baby in ways that aren’t completely clear.

On one side, a Pennsylvania University Study in 2021 concluded: “Moderate Amount of Caffeine Not Linked To Maternal Health Risks“.

On the other side, an article about “Impacts of Caffeine during Pregnancy“, a study conducted in 2019, posted on the National Library of Medicine website, can be summarized as “caffeine consumption during pregnancy is associated with adverse gestational outcomes”, but further studies are called for. 

Most experts agree that caffeine is safe during pregnancy if limited to 200 mg or less per day. This equals about 1–2 cups (240–580 mL) of coffee or 2–4 cups (540–960 mL) of caffeinated tea.

This picture shows a pregnant woman sitting in bed holding a cup of black coffee at the tip of her tummy which seems like she is almost due. She is wearing a long sleeve knitted shirt, her bear legs can be seen since the photo is taken from the top. There is a pink donut on top of her tummy about 6 inch higher to the coffee cup. Drink coffee while pregnant is general OK, but each individual has different reaction to coffee; so if it is unsure, please consult a doctor will be a good choice.
A Pregnant Woman Enjoys a Cup of Black Coffee In Bed

Caffeine is a stimulant that can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus.

High levels of caffeine intake during pregnancy have been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental delays.

However, studies have not been able to establish a clear link between caffeine intake and these outcomes.

It’s important to note that caffeine is not just found in coffee. It’s also found in tea, chocolate, soda, and some medications. So if you’re pregnant and trying to limit your caffeine intake, it’s important to be aware of all the sources of caffeine in your diet.

If you’re a coffee lover and can’t imagine giving up your daily cup of joe during pregnancy, there are some things you can do to reduce your caffeine intake. You can switch to decaf coffee or tea, which has very little caffeine.

Another option is to drink less coffee overall. If you’re used to drinking several cups of coffee a day, try cutting back gradually until you’re down to one or two cups a day. You can also try switching to other beverages like herbal tea or water.

It’s important to note that some studies have suggested that moderate caffeine intake during pregnancy may be beneficial for fetal development.

One study found that moderate caffeine intake was associated with a reduced risk of fetal growth restriction.

Another study found that moderate caffeine intake was associated with better cognitive performance in children.

Summeray to Answer "Can You Drink Coffee While Pregnant?"

In conclusion, coffee is generally safe during pregnancy if consumed in moderation. Most experts agree that limiting caffeine intake to 200 mg or less per day is safe for pregnant women. 

However, if you’re concerned about the effects of caffeine on your pregnancy or your baby’s development, it’s always best to talk to your doctor.

Your doctor can help you determine how much caffeine is safe for you based on your circumstances. 

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