Maternal Caffeine Consumption and Its Impact on the Fetus: A Review

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Fetal Development
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial during pregnancy, with caffeine consumption being a key consideration.
• Concerns exist regarding caffeine's potential adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes and fetal development.
• Limited accurate information and education on risks of excessive caffeine intake during pregnancy necessitate a review.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on the impact of caffeine consumption during pregnancy on fetal development.
• To address the gap in knowledge regarding caffeine's effects on pregnancy and fetal well-being.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of PubMed and Clinicatrial.gov from September 2022 to January 2023.
• Focus on clinical studies with a level of clinical evidence II or higher.
• Systematic review of existing research on caffeine and pregnancy outcomes.

Main Results:

• Caffeine intake during pregnancy increases fetal heart rate and breathing.
• It is associated with reduced fetal growth and lower birth weight.
• Caffeine can increase uterine contractions, potentially leading to spontaneous abortion and pre-eclampsia, but does not affect gestational length or cause hypertension.

Conclusions:

• Caffeine consumption during pregnancy has significant effects on fetal development, including potential risks.
• Data on caffeine's association with congenital disabilities is inconclusive, requiring further investigation.
• A deeper understanding of caffeine's impact on fetal development and pregnancy mechanisms is crucial.