Maternal caffeine intake during pregnancy and risk of fetal growth restriction: a large prospective observational study
2008

Maternal Caffeine Intake and Fetal Growth Restriction

Sample size: 2635 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Justin C Konje, Janet E Cade

Primary Institution: University of Leicester

Hypothesis

What is the association between maternal caffeine intake during pregnancy and the risk of fetal growth restriction?

Conclusion

Caffeine consumption during pregnancy is linked to an increased risk of fetal growth restriction.

Supporting Evidence

  • Caffeine consumption throughout pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of fetal growth restriction.
  • Mean caffeine intake during pregnancy was 159 mg/day.
  • Women with faster caffeine clearance had a stronger association with fetal growth restriction.

Takeaway

Drinking too much caffeine while pregnant can make babies smaller. It's better to drink less caffeine before and during pregnancy.

Methodology

A prospective longitudinal observational study measuring caffeine intake and fetal growth outcomes in pregnant women.

Potential Biases

Potential for self-reported data inaccuracies regarding caffeine, smoking, and alcohol consumption.

Limitations

Only 20% of invited women participated, which may affect generalizability.

Participant Demographics

Low risk pregnant women aged 18-45 years from two UK maternity units.

Statistical Information

P-Value

P<0.001

Confidence Interval

95% CI 0.9 to 1.6 for 100-199 mg/day; 1.5 (1.1 to 2.1) for 200-299 mg/day; 1.4 (1.0 to 2.0) for >300 mg/day.

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1136/bmj.a2332

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