Pregnancy

Caffeine intake and fetal health

Effect of caffeine on fetal growth undetermined

Effects of caffeine on fetal growth have been observed in some studies, but not in others².

In a Dutch study of 7,346 pregnant women, consistent observations were seen between caffeine intake and fetal head circumference or estimated fetal weight, with intakes of caffeine over 540mg/day associated with shorter birth length¹². However, this has not been observed elsewhere and further studies are needed.

In addition, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that the relationship between caffeine and growth restriction remains undetermined¹¹.

No clear link between caffeine intake and congenital malformations

There is scant published research into the effects of caffeine on congenital malformations².

Modest associations between total caffeine intake and malformation of the rectum (anorectal astresia)¹³and neural tube defects (spina bifida)¹⁴ have been observed, though there is potential for bias in both these studies. However, no associations have been found between maternal caffeine intake and cleft lip or cleft palate^15,16.

Schmidt in 2010¹⁷ hypothesised that individuals may run different risks based on whether they are slow or fast metabolisers of caffeine.

Caffeine and fetal death

Studies have consistently reported modest associations between caffeine intake and fetal death². However, the interpretation of the science on caffeine and fetal death needs to consider that these studies contain common sources of bias, which may explain the observed relationship with caffeine use. Good quality research is required before any conclusions can be reached.