Jury May Still Be out on Caffeine Use During Pregnancy

Philadelphia, PA – The ongoing debate about the safety of caffeine use during pregnancy got another data point today at the 75^th Scientific Congress of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. A team at the National Institutes of Health presented a study showing that the use of any level of caffeine, particularly during the first eight weeks of pregnancy, may increase the risk of pregnancy loss.

The study was of over 1200 reproductive age women attempting pregnancy between 2007 and 2011. Researchers examined both daily self-reported intake of caffeine and blood serum levels both pre-conception and at eight weeks gestation. Pre-conception of intake of two or more caffeinated beverages (coffee, tea or soda) were associated with risk of pregnancy loss. The researchers concluded that women considering pregnancy could benefit from eliminating caffeine intake.

“The data on caffeine intake and pregnancy remains somewhat inconclusive, however, it is hard to see any harm that could come to women or babies from reducing or eliminating caffeine,” said Hugh Taylor, MD, Vice President of the ASRM.

O-64 A. Purdue-Smithe et al “Caffeinated Beverage Intake and Serum Caffeine Metabolites and Risk of Pregnancy Loss”

ASRM is a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to the advancement of the science and practice of reproductive medicine. The Society accomplishes its mission through the pursuit of excellence in education and research and through advocacy on behalf of patients, physicians, and affiliated health care providers. The Society is committed to facilitating and sponsoring educational activities for the lay public and continuing medical education activities for professionals who are engaged in the practice of and research in reproductive medicine. www.asrm.org

Jury May Still Be out on Caffeine Use During Pregnancy

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