Child Development - A Look at Caffeine Consumption and Miscarriage Risk

By Colleen Hurley, RD, Certified Kid’s Nutrition Specialist

Expecting mothers tend to pay extra special attention to what they are eating drinking throughout their pregnancies.  This month, 2 very opposing studies were released in regards to an expecting mother’s caffeine consumption and risk of miscarriage.  While one study claims moderate caffeine intake does increase the risk of pregnancy complications, the other states just the opposite.

The most recent study was provided by Kaiser Permanente, a California based health insurance company.   The research was conducted by surveying over 1,000 expecting mothers about their caffeine consumption and dividing the responses into 2 groups; those who changed their drinking habits and those who did not.  All of the women were followed until the 20^th week of pregnancy.  The results revealed that drinking 200 milligrams or more, about the equivalent of one cup of coffee, doubled miscarriage risk.  Tea, chocolate, and soda pop had the same effect as coffee.

In a different study by Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, released just a few short weeks ago, researchers discovered that moderate amounts of caffeine do not increase a woman’s risk of miscarriage.   Mount Sinai researchers also feel the results of the study echo the results of previous studies of this nature.  The study followed over 2,000 women who also indicated their caffeine intake prior to becoming pregnant.  The majority of the women studied consumed about 350 milligrams of caffeine or other caffeinated beverages, and most of the women’s caffeine drinking dropped to about 200 milligrams within a few week of  pregnancy.  Researchers found no increased risk of miscarriage throughout this study, possibly due to the moderate caffeine intake.

Although these studies may leave expecting mothers feeling a bit confused, it is important to note a few key points.  Other than caffeine intake, no other nutritional data was collected in either study.  There may be many other extenuating factors, such as nutrient intake and overall health and well being of the individuals, which were not accounted for.  Some experts say it is simply not worth the risk of consuming caffeine, while others believe moderate amounts are not harmful.   Much more research is needed before a definitive answer can be found.

Pregnancy is a time in a woman’s life where proper nutrition is imperative.  It is important to seek the help of a physician, dietitian, or nutritionist not only to discuss your questions or concerns, but also to ensure you are getting adequate nutrients. 

Epidemiology, January 2008

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