Short answer: Moderate caffeine intake appears to have little or no clear link to the chance of becoming pregnant, according to a systematic review. During pregnancy, however, both the Swedish Food Agency and EFSA recommend a maximum of 200 mg of caffeine per day, as higher intake in studies has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and lower birth weight. However, the evidence is partly limited and contradictory.
How much is 200 mg of caffeine?
The amount of caffeine varies between beverages, but as a rough guideline, 200 mg is equivalent to about two to three cups of brewed coffee. Caffeine is also found in tea, energy drinks, cola, and chocolate, and all of it counts towards your daily total. Since the content varies greatly between products and brewing strength, it is difficult to give exact figures – view the amounts as approximate rather than absolute.
Caffeine and the chance of becoming pregnant
A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis that compiled observational studies found no clear link between coffee or caffeine intake and the possibility of becoming pregnant, either through natural conception or fertility treatment. Most of the evidence is based on observational studies, which can be affected by other factors, and the authors describe the associations as weak. Therefore, interpret the results with caution.
Caffeine during pregnancy – what the authorities say
When it comes to ongoing pregnancy, the advice is more cautious. The Swedish Food Agency recommends that pregnant and breastfeeding women limit their total caffeine intake to a maximum of 200 mg per day. EFSA, the EU's food safety authority, has made a corresponding assessment and considers that habitual intake of up to about 200 mg per day does not appear to cause safety concerns for the fetus. The background is that higher intake in epidemiological studies has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and lower birth weight.
Practical considerations if you are trying to conceive
Based on current evidence, there is rarely a reason to completely abstain from coffee solely to increase the chance of becoming pregnant, but many still choose to stay within 200 mg per day already during the conception period – partly because in early pregnancy, one often does not know that one is pregnant. This is an area where you should feel free to check with your midwife or healthcare provider based on your own situation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to completely stop drinking coffee if I'm trying to get pregnant?
No, there is no strong evidence to suggest complete abstinence. Research indicates a weak or no link between moderate caffeine and the chance of becoming pregnant. Many still choose to stay within approximately 200 mg per day as a precautionary measure.
Are tea, soda, and chocolate included in the limit?
Yes. The recommendation of 200 mg refers to the total caffeine intake from all sources during the day, not just coffee. Tea, energy drinks, cola, and chocolate also contribute.
Does caffeine affect male fertility?
The evidence for male fertility and sperm quality is more limited and uncertain. It is currently not possible to draw any firm conclusions, and we have not been able to substantiate this as well as the effects in women.
This text is general information and not medical advice. Always consult a midwife, doctor, or other healthcare professional for advice tailored to your situation.
Sources
- Swedish Food Agency – Caffeine: advice for pregnant and breastfeeding women (2019)
- EFSA – Scientific Opinion on the safety of caffeine (2015)
- Lyngsø et al. – Association between coffee or caffeine consumption and fecundity and fertility: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis, Clinical Epidemiology (2017), PubMed