Caffeine may increase risk of miscarriage

Caffeine during pregnancy or not? A controversial issue for certain. I've had friends give up the caffeine buzz entirely when pregnant, while another had her obstetrician's approval to have a modest amount of caffeine daily. Existing studies have not been conclusive on the caffeine debate, but a new study publishing on Monday indicates pregnant women and those trying to conceive may want to give it up.

The study found nearly double the risk of miscarriage for women consuming 200 milligrams or more caffeine per day -- the amount in a 10 ounce cup of coffee or a larger 25 oz mug of tea. Researchers interviewed 1,063 pregnant women. Of 264 women who self-reported no caffeine, 12.5 percent miscarried (typical rate), while 24.5 percent of the 164 women who consumed 200 milligrams or more suffered a miscarriage.

March of Dimes is reportedly changing it's official message to advise pregnant women or those trying to conceive to limit daily caffeine to 200 milligrams or less. Whether or not this study impacts official recommendations from other professional groups, such as the American College of Obsetricians and Gynecologists, remains to be seen.