Can I Drink Coffee While Pregnant?

Can I Drink Coffee While Pregnant? Everything You Need to Know

Pregnancy comes with plenty of questions — and one of the most common is: “Can I drink coffee while pregnant?”

The reassuring news is that many pregnant women can still enjoy coffee in small amounts. However, it’s important to understand how caffeine intake during pregnancy affects the body, how much caffeine is considered safe, and how to stay within recommended limits.

(Always speak to your midwife, GP or healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance.)

Can You Drink Coffee While Pregnant?

Yes — you can drink coffee while pregnant, provided you limit caffeine intake.

In the UK, the NHS advises pregnant women to keep caffeine consumption during pregnancy to less than 200 milligrams per day. This recommendation exists because caffeine crosses the placenta, and the developing baby cannot process caffeine at the same rate as an adult.

High levels of caffeine have been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and low birth weight, which is why monitoring caffeine per day is important.

How Does Caffeine Affect Pregnancy?

Caffeine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system. During pregnancy:

  • Caffeine crosses the placenta

  • The baby cannot metabolise caffeine efficiently

  • High caffeine intake may affect fetal growth and weight gain

This is why health professionals recommend limiting caffeine while pregnant and paying attention to caffeine content across all foods and drinks, not just coffee.

How Much Caffeine Is in a Cup of Coffee?

The amount of caffeine in a cup of coffee varies depending on the type of coffee, bean, roast and brewing method.

Approximate caffeine content:

  • Instant coffee: 60–80mg per mug

  • Filter coffee: 90–140mg per mug

  • Espresso (single shot): 60–80mg

For a detailed breakdown, see
👉 How Much Caffeine Is in a Cup of Coffee?

How Much Coffee Can I Drink While Pregnant?

Staying within the 200 milligrams per day guideline usually means one of the following:

  • One strong filter coffee

  • Two weaker instant coffees

  • Two small lattes or flat whites (each with one espresso shot)

Bear in mind that levels of caffeine add up quickly if you also consume tea, chocolate, cola or the occasional energy drink. Pregnancy can also increase sensitivity to caffeine, so some people may feel effects more strongly even at lower amounts.

Can I Drink Decaf Coffee While Pregnant?

Yes — decaf coffee during pregnancy is generally considered a safe option.

Decaffeinated coffee is not completely caffeine-free, but it typically contains 2–5mg per cup, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy the taste of coffee while keeping caffeine intake very low.

Pregnancy-Friendly Decaf Options

Benefits of Switching to Decaf During Pregnancy

Many pregnant women choose decaf because it:

  • Helps keep caffeine intake to less than 200mg

  • Reduces jitters, anxiety and sleep disruption

  • May ease pregnancy-related heartburn

  • Allows enjoyment of coffee flavour without the stimulant

You can learn more about how decaf affects the body here:
👉 Is Decaf Coffee a Diuretic?

Other Sources of Caffeine to Be Aware Of

Caffeine isn’t only found in coffee. It’s also present in:

  • Tea and green tea

  • Chocolate

  • Cola and fizzy drinks

  • Energy drinks

  • Some medications and supplements

Being mindful of caffeine content across all foods and drinks helps keep total caffeine per day within safe limits.

Tips for Enjoying Coffee Safely While Pregnant

Some practical, non-medical tips many people find helpful include:

  • Choose decaf for additional cups

  • Stick to single-shot coffees

  • Use a smaller mug

  • Track caffeine from all sources

  • Choose high-quality coffee for better flavour with fewer cups

If you’re brewing at home, these guides may help:
👉 How to Make Black Coffee
👉 How to Grind Coffee Beans

Should I Avoid Coffee Completely While Pregnant?

Most people don’t need to eliminate coffee entirely. However, you may choose to avoid it if you experience:

  • Increased heart rate

  • Anxiety or restlessness

  • Nausea

  • Difficulty sleeping

Individual medical advice should always take priority. Speak to your midwife or doctor if you’re unsure what level of caffeine consumption during pregnancy is right for you.

🌼 Conclusion

So, can I drink coffee while pregnant?
Yes — for most pregnant women, coffee is safe in small amounts, provided caffeine intake is kept below 200 milligrams per day.

Monitoring caffeine from all foods and drinks, choosing decaf when needed, and listening to your body can help you enjoy coffee safely throughout pregnancy.

Always seek personalised advice from your healthcare provider.

Further Reading

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