Caffeine is a stimulant, and neither doctors nor scientists can agree on a safe level of consumption during pregnancy. Studies have been performed attempting to identify the risks associated with caffeine intake during pregnancy, although results have been conflicting. Regardless of the results of these studies, many doctors recommend that pregnant women greatly limit or eliminate their intake of caffeine due to the possibility of side effects on the unborn baby.
Miscarriage
A study performed by the Kaiser Permanente Research division between 1996 and 1998 concluded that pregnant women who ingest over 200mg of caffeine per day had twice the risk of miscarriage compared to women who ingested none. Drinking less than 200mg per day still increased the miscarriage risk by 40 percent. Because caffeine crosses the placenta, the effects on the unborn baby can be numerous. It takes much longer for the caffeine to leave the baby's system. Caffeine is thought to affect both the baby's heart and brain development. All of these are factors that increase the risk of miscarriage.
Increased Blood Pressure
Due to the stimulant properties of caffeine, pregnant women can experience an increase in blood pressure after the consumption of caffeine. High blood pressure in pregnant women is especially dangerous due to the complication known as preeclampsia, which typically occurs in the second half of pregnancy. High blood pressure has a negative impact on the placenta and the blood flow to the baby.
Low Birth Weight and Premature Labor
A study performed at the University of Leicester, UK, in 2008 concluded that caffeine intake of 100mg or more per day causes growth restriction in unborn babies. Low birth weight is noted after the birth of the babies in mothers who consumed this level of caffeine. The decrease in birth weight was often less than 90 grams. Other studies have been completed on this subject with many doctors and scientists believing the overall weight difference is very minor. Scientists with the National Institute of Health have also found a correlation between the consumption of caffeine and premature labor.
Dehydration
Caffeine acts as a diuretic, causing a mother's body to eliminate more fluid than normal through the kidneys and urinary tract. Although pregnant women have an increase in blood volume, they are very susceptible to dehydration. Dehydration can lead to premature labor, headaches and a possible decrease in amniotic fluid levels.
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