Doctors link high caffeine consumption to miscarriage risks, poor sleep, hypertension and restricted foetal development

Medical experts are raising fresh concerns over coffee consumption during pregnancy, cautioning that too much caffeine could pose serious risks to both mother and unborn child.

Obstetricians and gynaecologists say while moderate intake may be tolerated, excessive consumption has been linked to complications such as miscarriage, high blood pressure and restricted foetal growth.

Speaking on the issue, specialists explained that caffeine acts as a stimulant, often making individuals restless and jittery—an effect that can be particularly harmful during pregnancy when adequate rest is essential.

The World Health Organisation notes that caffeine crosses the placenta and can directly affect the developing baby. When consumed in high amounts, it may disrupt the mother’s body balance and sleep pattern, ultimately impacting the baby’s development.

Similarly, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service recommends that pregnant women limit caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams per day, warning that exceeding this level may increase the risk of miscarriage and low birth weight. It also highlights that caffeine is not limited to coffee alone, as it is present in tea, chocolate and many soft drinks.

A reproductive health expert, Dr Joseph Akinde, stressed that coffee’s stimulating effect makes it unsuitable during pregnancy, particularly when it interferes with rest.

“Pregnant women need optimal rest—at least eight hours of sleep daily. If coffee keeps you awake or makes you restless, then it is not ideal for your system,” he said.

Akinde added that excessive caffeine intake can overstimulate the body, potentially leading to high blood pressure and other complications that could affect pregnancy outcomes.

He further warned that inadequate rest combined with high caffeine levels may contribute to poor foetal development. “There is a risk of foetal growth restriction if the mother is not getting enough rest,” he noted.

Also weighing in, consultant gynaecologist Dr Stanley Egbogu said high caffeine intake during pregnancy has been associated with miscarriage, premature delivery and impaired baby growth.

He explained that caffeine passes through the placenta to the unborn baby, which lacks the ability to process it effectively. As a result, it can accumulate and interfere with normal development.

“Excess caffeine can increase heart rate, cause restlessness and affect sleep quality. These changes can destabilise the body during pregnancy, which is not desirable,” Egbogu said.

He warned that many women may unknowingly exceed safe limits due to hidden sources of caffeine in everyday foods and drinks.

“A single cup of coffee can contain between 80 and 100 milligrams of caffeine. When combined with tea, soft drinks or chocolate, the total intake can quickly go beyond recommended levels,” he explained.

Both experts advised pregnant women to be mindful of their caffeine intake, stressing that moderation is key, while noting that avoiding it altogether remains the safest option to minimise preventable risks.