Can I Drink Coffee & Alcohol While Trying to Get Pregnant?

Q: Is it crucial that I give up all caffeine or alcohol when trying to conceive?

A: No.  According to Dr. Sheeva Talebian, with RMA New York, drinking caffeine in moderate amounts is likely safe to a developing fetus and when trying to conceive.  But what does a “moderate” amount mean?  Although not based on strong data, we do recommend you keep your caffeine intake to less than 200 mg a day when pregnant (the equivalent of a 12-ounce cup of coffee) and I would make the same recommendation for women trying to conceive.  Alcohol in moderation is also not going to hinder chances of conception but once you have your positive pregnancy test, I do advise you to stop all alcohol consumption. Again what is considered a “moderate” amount.  I would suggest not more than 1-2 drinks in a given day and not more than several times a week.  Is that evening glass of wine going to prevent pregnancy? Certainly not, and in fact, if it decreases stress some may argue that it can help.

For more information on life style choices that may affect your chances of getting pregnant with or without fertility treatment, check out this Creating a Family radio show on that topic.