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Elise
Mayer

caffeine and pregnancy?

I have heard that consuming too much caffeine in the form of tea and coffee could affect pregnancy in a negative way. I do not have much idea about it. Let me inform you that I am a 28 years old pregnant woman who just simply loves tea and coffee. Can somebody let me know about it by clarifying the relation between caffeine and pregnancy?

8 months ago

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Sanjukta Deb | Aug 27 2011

Caffeine and pregnancy have always had an antagonistic relationship. You will find doctors and relatives repeatedly saying that you shouldn't include caffeine in your diet for the well being of your baby. Caffeine can be exceedingly harmful for you and your baby.

Caffeine is a diuretic and can cause more urination than what is normal. This will cause you to get dehydrated that will automatically affect your baby. The baby won't get enough nutrition if you are dehydrated. It is very necessary for a pregnant woman to be hydrated at all times. Caffeine works as a stimulant and can increase your blood pressure and heart rate. This may also harm the baby. Caffeine during pregnancy may cause nausea, dizziness and breathing problems. Caffeine is also known to absorb iron and calcium, hence, leaving your baby with less than necessary amounts of these two elements.

Caffeine can pass through placenta (the organ that connects your baby to the uterus) and can be absorbed by the baby. The baby cannot absorb caffeine as well as we do, so chances are that the caffeine will remain in the baby's blood for a very long time, causing the baby, harm.

Most importantly, caffeine can also cause miscarriage and in certain cases, birth defects as well. The more caffeine you consume, the more the chance of losing the baby. Hence, it is a good idea to limit your intake of caffeine and refrain from it completely, gradually. Try substituting your caffeine intake with decaf versions of coffee and tea, fresh fruit and vegetable juices and water. You need to take care of yourself and your baby.