Caffeine is one of the most popular stimulants in the world. But what if a pregnant woman consumes caffeine? Does this affect the fetus and has the woman got to stop taking caffeine completely? Or has she got to decrease the daily intake of drinks containing caffeine? Where is caffeine found? Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, chocolates, carbonated beverages and even in some medicines for headaches, which are provided without a prescription. These have a large content of caffeine. What does caffeine do? Caffeine is a stimulant and diuretic. It raises blood pressure and heart pulse. It is diuretic. Therefore, it decreases the quantity of fluids in the body and can lead to dehydration. This harms the pregnant woman's health. It can cause insomnia for the pregnant woman. We must not forget that caffeine is a stimulant. Does caffeine affect the fetus? Caffeine reaches your fetus via the placenta. Despite the mother's body being able to deal with the quantities of caffeine reaching it, the fetus cannot deal with the caffeine quantities. The process of metabolism is still growing in the fetus and it cannot carry out full metabolism of caffeine. The quantity of caffeine can cause changes in the pattern of natural movement in subsequent stages of pregnancy. Does caffeine cause any congenital deformity for the fetus? Many studies on animals have shown that taking caffeine in large quantities can cause congenital deformities. It can also cause premature birth and low fertility as well as increase the hazard of decreased weight of fetuses. However, there are no studies conducted on human beings to determine the effects of caffeine on pregnant women. Does caffeine cause sterility? Some studies have shown a relationship between caffeine consumption at high rates and late pregnancy. Does caffeine cause abortion? In 2008, two studies on caffeine and its relationship with abortion issued by the American Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics, showed that women who consume 200 milligrams or more of caffeine daily, double the probability of abortion compared to women who do not consume caffeine. What is the quantity of caffeine considered to be suitable for pregnant women? Scientists recommend that pregnant women should avoid taking foods or drinks containing caffeine. However, experts differed on the correct quantity of caffeine that should not be exceeded daily. Some experts say pregnant mothers should not take more than 150 milligrams of caffeine daily while others say they should not exceed 300 milligrams of caffeine daily. Due to these differences, it is advised that they should not take more than 200 milligrams daily. This is equivalent to one cup of coffee. As to the quantity recommended for ordinary people, it ranges between 150 milligrams and 350 milligrams daily. What is the quantity of caffeine in most common drinks? • Cup of black coffee (16 ounces) contains 400 milligrams. • Cup of coffee with milk (16 ounces) contains 259 milligrams. • Carbonated beverages for people on diet (32 ounces) contain 124 milligrams. • Carbonated beverages (32 ounces) contain 92 milligrams. • A chocolate bar (1 ounce) contains 26 milligrams. • A cup of green tea (6 ounces) contains 40 milligrams. • A cup of black tea (6 ounces) contains 45 milligrams.
