Maternal Caffeine Consumption and Birth Outcomes

Coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverage consumption has continued to increase over the past several decades. Is there a link between maternal caffeine consumption and birth outcomes? A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Nutrition from Ireland in 941 mothers and their newborns found that birth outcomes were negatively associated with maternal caffeine consumption.

Women who drank either tea or coffee during pregnancy had lower birth weight infants, shorter birth lengths, smaller head circumferences, and shorter gestational age at delivery. Higher risk for low birth weight infants and preterm birth were also seen. The highest caffeine intake of either tea or coffee were found to be associate with similar higher risk of adverse birth outcomes versus the lowest consumption of these beverages.

Caffeine intake should be curtailed during pregnancy and if consumed only in moderation or preferably not at all. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle before and during pregnancy. For more information, please contact us!