Caffeine and pregnancy. A retrospective survey

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Perinatal Medicine
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Caffeine is a widely consumed stimulant with potential health effects.
• Previous research has suggested possible links between caffeine consumption and reproductive outcomes.
• Understanding the impact of high caffeine intake on pregnancy is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between high caffeine consumption and reproductive loss in a population of recently pregnant women.
• To explore potential correlations between maternal and paternal caffeine intake and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted on 800 households with recently pregnant women.
• Dietary intake, specifically caffeine consumption, was estimated for women and men.
• Reproductive outcomes, including spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, premature birth, and uncomplicated delivery, were recorded.

Main Results:

• A subgroup of 16 women with estimated daily caffeine intake ≥ 600 mg showed a high incidence of reproductive loss (13/16).
• Outcomes in this subgroup included spontaneous abortions (8), stillbirths (5), and premature births (2).
• Elevated paternal caffeine intake (≥ 600 mg/day) was also associated with an increased rate of reproductive loss.

Conclusions:

• Excessive caffeine intake (≥ 600 mg/day) may be a contributing factor in cases of unexplained spontaneous abortion and perinatal mortality.
• While a causal relationship cannot be definitively established from this retrospective study, the findings warrant consideration by healthcare providers.
• Physicians should be aware of the potential risks associated with high caffeine consumption during pregnancy and paternal exposure.