The negative impacts of caffeine are well documented both in research papers and, of course, in the media; not all research, however, is in agreement regarding all of the effects of caffeine. Some documentation is specifically caffeine negative, only citing the various “bad” effects. Other research studies take a more positive approach, documenting both benefits as well as possible problems with consuming caffeine….
Having a morning cup of coffee or tea is almost a tradition here in the Western world. With all the articles and news stories regarding caffeine, many women trying to get pregnant want to know what the real deal is – can they continue with their morning pick-me-up? It is certainly a logical question based on all of the different media reporting!
Getting their bodies in good shape is often a primary goal for those trying to get pregnant, therefore many women easily decide to give up their wake-up cup of coffee or tea. Some women, however, just cannot make it through the day without some sort of a caffeine boost. For those women, a morning or afternoon cup of coffee or a large caffeinated soda can lead to a lot of guilty feelings and concern.
So the question is this: is there any reason to feel guilty over just one cup of coffee, tea, or soda? What does the research really say about the relationship between fertility and caffeine?
What the Experts Say
According to information given in UpToDate — a trusted electronic reference used by many physicians and patients:
“Approximately 20 percent of adult Americans consume greater than 300 mg of caffeine daily. Some studies have reported that increased caffeine consumption (eg, >300 to 500 mg) is associated with a modest, but statistically significant decrease in fertility, while others have not found an adverse effect. The widespread consumption of caffeine at doses associated with subfertility makes it a potentially important contributor to fertility problems. The March of Dimes website recommends that women who are trying to become pregnant consume no more than 200 mg of caffeine per day.”
“The mechanism by which caffeine consumption may be linked to infertility is unclear. Caffeine consumption may increase estrogen production and/or decrease estrogen metabolism. Caffeine consumption has also been linked to tubal factor infertility and endometriosis associated infertility. Most studies were done in coffee drinkers and do not account for other sources of caffeine or other substances in coffee that may affect fertility.”
“There is no strong evidence that caffeine consumption by the male partner influences fertility. Whether caffeine consumption impairs success of in vitro fertilization is unclear due to lack of studies.”
Caffeine as an Indirect Cause of Infertility
As the excerpts above state, it is not really certain whether or not caffeine leads to lowered fertility. While some studies have shown an effect on fertility, other studies have shown no effect whatsoever. In fact, for those research studies that have found an impact on fertility, results show that the impact is minimal.
For the most part, those who have been trying to get pregnant for a long time are typically very cautious about drinking, eating, or taking anything that might make conception more difficult. Even though the studies do not necessarily connect caffeine to infertility, cutting back may be a good idea, just to be sure caffeine is not an issue.
Several studies have concluded that caffeine drinkers may be more likely to have endometriosis. In addition, there are several other studies that have been completed that show caffeine may have an effect on estrogen levels, specifically leading to higher circulating levels. Since high levels of estrogen can make endometriosis worse, if caffeine does have an effect on estrogen, this may be a serious link. Consequently, if you have endometriosis, it might be seriously worth considering a reduction in your caffeine intake.
How Much is Too Much?
The bottom line is this – while it’s not clear yet whether caffeine lowers fertility in women, current research studies have shown that less than 200 mg of caffeine a day should be fine. You don’t have to totally give up your daily caffeine fix, but you might want to pass on seconds.
If you are having trouble getting pregnant, it may be time to make an appointment with a reproductive specialist. Take control of your fertility and make an appointment with one of our compassionate and highly trained infertility specialists. The Center of Reproductive Medicine serves the greater Houston area with full-service fertility clinics in Webster and Beaumont that give life to your dreams. The professional staff at CORM will work closely with you to choose the appropriate fertility program for your individual reproductive medical needs. Be sure to call the Center of Reproductive Medicine today!