Coffee when TTC and in Pregnancy: How Much Is Really Safe?

Think you have to give up coffee completely in pregnancy? Not true.

Aug 25, 2025

Myth: “You have to give up coffee completely if you’re trying to conceive or are pregnant.”

Truth: Moderation is key, not total elimination.

Coffee is one of the world’s most common pick-me-ups, and for many people the day doesn’t truly start until that first sip. But if you’re trying to conceive (TTC) or already pregnant, you may have heard that coffee is dangerous and must be avoided at all costs. Let’s look at what the science really says.

Caffeine and Pregnancy

Caffeine is a stimulant found not only in coffee but also in tea, chocolate, sodas, and many energy drinks. It crosses the placenta, which means your baby is exposed to it too. Unlike adults, babies in the womb can’t break down caffeine efficiently, so high levels may stay in their system longer.

Research has linked very high caffeine intake to increased risks of miscarriage, low birth weight, and stillbirth. However, the key word is high. Most studies show that moderate caffeine intake — up to 200 milligrams (mg) per day — is considered safe during pregnancy. That’s about one 12-ounce cup of brewed coffee.

What About TTC?

For people trying to conceive, caffeine doesn’t appear to affect fertility in moderate amounts. Very high intake, however, may slightly lower the chances of getting pregnant or increase the risk of early pregnancy loss. Again, moderation is the safeguard.

How Much Is 200 mg?

Brewed coffee (12 oz): ~200 mg
Espresso (1 shot): ~65–70 mg
Black tea (8 oz): ~40–50 mg
Green tea (8 oz): ~30–40 mg
Dark chocolate bar (1.5 oz): ~30 mg

Be aware: specialty coffee drinks, oversized mugs, or energy drinks can easily push you over the recommended limit. Reading labels and keeping an eye on portion size makes a big difference.

Thanks for reading Obstetric Intelligence by an ObMD! This post is public so feel free to share it.

Myth: Any coffee at all is unsafe.
Fact: One small to moderate serving per day is fine for most pregnant people.
Myth: Decaf has zero caffeine.
Fact: Decaf still contains about 2–15 mg per cup.
Myth: Energy drinks are a safer alternative.
Fact: Many energy drinks contain very high levels of caffeine plus additives that are not recommended in pregnancy.

Practical Tips

Stick to one small or medium cup of coffee per day.
Watch out for hidden caffeine in tea, chocolate, and sodas.
Switch to decaf or herbal teas if you miss the ritual of multiple cups.
Talk with your healthcare provider if you have other risk factors, such as high blood pressure or a history of pregnancy complications.

Take-home message: You don’t need to give up coffee completely when TTC or pregnant — but keep it moderate. One regular cup a day is generally safe, while going beyond that may raise risks for you and your baby.

#PregnancyMyths #CoffeeAndPregnancy #TTCJourney #MaternalHealth #ObGynInsights #MythBustingMedicine