Caffeine Intake While TTC

Caffeine is a nervous system stimulant which heightens alertness among other things and provides the morning pick-up that many people enjoy. However, heavy daily use (>300 mg) can result in anxiety, insomnia, trembling, heart palpitations, increased urination, or diarrhea.  Many studies have been done examining the link between caffeine and infertility and a negative link between the two has been found.

 

In women, caffeine has been associated with a longer time to achieve pregnancy and miscarriage during pregnancy.  It has been thought that the higher the caffeine consumption (>200-300 mg/day), the higher the risk for miscarriage.   The presence of too much caffeine also substantially reduces the body’s ability to absorb iron which is an essential nutrient for pregnancy in preventing anemia, fatigue, low birth weight, and pre-term delivery.   Caffeine also decreases the absorption of other essential nutrients such as Vitamin D, Calcium, B Vitamins, and other minerals and nutrients.  Caffeine also has a diuretic effect which can contribute to dehydration and associated issues.

 

While caffeine use itself does not negatively affect semen quality (recent studies have shown), the detriments of too much caffeine intake are harmful to overall health.

 

For overall health and wellness in both male and female partners, < 300 mg/day of caffeine is recommended and < 150 mg is even better.  During pregnancy or leading up to pregnancy women should consider lowering their caffeine intake to <150 mg or eliminating it altogether.   Those who consume large amounts of caffeinated beverages should taper gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, irritability, restlessness, and nausea.