Caffeine and TTC

Is it okay to drink caffeine when TTC? Why do doctors recommend against it during pregnancy?

Re: Caffeine and TTC

This is what I found on a website:

Maybe. Some studies have shown a link between caffeine consumption and a woman's ability to conceive.

One study, for example, showed that women who ingested 300 mg. of caffeine per day or more had a 27 percent lower chance of conceiving than those who had no caffeine. But other studies have suggested little or no correlation between caffeine and fertility.

To be safe, if you're trying to get pregnant, it's probably wise to go easy on the caffeine. Most experts agree that moderate amounts of caffeine — less than 300 mg. a day — don't appear to affect a woman's fertility.

On the other hand, there is some evidence that getting 200 mg. or more of caffeine a day while you're pregnant raises your risk of miscarriage — so this would be a good time for you to start cutting back.

Re: Caffeine and TTC

If you do a search on here, you'll come up with a million threads on it.

Every doctor has his own opinion - so I'd suggest asking yours.

My RE said my normal 12 ounces of coffee each morning is fine.

This is from American Pregnancy Association:

Facts About Caffeine:
Caffeine is a stimulant and a diuretic. Because caffeine is a stimulant, it increases your blood pressure and heart rate, both of which are not recommended during pregnancy. Caffeine also increases the frequency of urination. This causes reduction in your body fluid levels and can lead to dehydration.

Caffeine crosses the placenta to your baby. Although you may be able to handle the amounts of caffeine you feed your body, your baby cannot. Your baby's metabolism is still maturing and cannot fully metabolize the caffeine. Any amount of caffeine can also cause changes in your baby's sleep pattern or normal movement pattern in the later stages of pregnancy. Remember, caffeine is a stimulant and can keep both you and your baby awake.

Caffeine is found in more than just coffee. Caffeine is not only found in coffee but also in tea, soda, chocolate, and even some over-the-counter medications that relieve headaches. Be aware of what you consume.

Fact or Myth?
Statement: Caffeine causes birth defects in humans.

Facts: Numerous studies on animals have shown that caffeine can cause birth defects, preterm delivery, reduced fertility, and increase the risk of low-birth weight offspring and other reproductive problems. There have not been any conclusive studies done on humans though. It is still better to play it safe when it comes to inconclusive studies.

Statement: Caffeine causes infertility.

Facts: Some studies have shown a link between high levels of caffeine consumption and delayed conception.

Statement: Caffeine causes miscarriages.

Facts: A few studies have shown that there may be an increase in miscarriages among women who consume more than 300 mg (three 5 oz. cups of coffee) a day. Other outcomes include preterm labor and low-birth weight babies. Again, it is safer to avoid caffeine as much as possible.

Statement: A pregnant woman should not consume ANY caffeine.

Facts: Experts have stated that moderate levels of caffeine have not been found to have a negative effect on pregnancy. The definition of moderate varies anywhere from 150 mg - 300 mg a day.

Re: Caffeine and TTC

Oh, I've cut back. That's the problem. I'm exhausted today and was contemplating breaking my caffeine fast and having a sip, but I'm being good and went for the caffeine free. Thanks for the info.

Re: Caffeine and TTC

the only cut back on caffeine i do is drink caffeine free soda..

i dont change my TTC ways.. i change it when i am PG.

Re: Caffeine and TTC

I have definetly cut back on my caffeine. I do have a cup of coffee a day, if I please.

Re: Caffeine and TTC

I cut it out completely. Except I only have hot chocolate on occasion.

Re: Caffeine and TTC

I don't cut back while TTC, I cut out when I am pregnant. However, I would go by what your doctor says.

It's tough at first, but you get through it.

Re: Caffeine and TTC

Seriously I can't live my life like I am pregnant. Until I get that BFP I am not modifying my caffeine intake!