40w LaterGuide

Once you start trying for a baby, everyday choices can suddenly feel complicated. Can you still drink coffee? Do you need to avoid alcohol completely? Do you have to change everything you eat?

The good news is that preparing for pregnancy does not require a “perfect” diet. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, not smoking, and looking after your overall health are more important than worrying about every individual food or drink.

What about coffee and caffeine?

Caffeine is found not only in coffee but also in tea, chocolate, cola, energy drinks, and some other products. The amount can vary considerably depending on the type and serving size.

There is no need to automatically stop drinking coffee just because you are trying to conceive. However, it is sensible to avoid excessive caffeine intake. Once pregnant, many health authorities recommend limiting caffeine to about 200 mg per day, so becoming aware of your total intake while trying to conceive can make the transition easier.

What about alcohol?

The relationship between low levels of alcohol consumption and the chance of conception is not completely clear. Studies have produced varying results, while heavier alcohol consumption may negatively affect fertility and overall health.

There is a more important consideration: you may be pregnant for a period of time before realizing it.

Alcohol can affect fetal development, and no safe amount or safe timing of alcohol use during pregnancy has been established. For this reason, if you are actively trying to conceive, avoiding alcohol is the safest choice.

There is also no reliable “safe window” between your period and ovulation in which drinking can be recommended as risk-free. Ovulation timing can vary from cycle to cycle, even when your periods are usually regular.

What if I drank before realizing I was pregnant?

Don't panic because of a single exposure. Stop drinking once you know or suspect you may be pregnant and discuss any concerns about the amount or frequency with a healthcare professional.

You don't need to make pregnancy preparation perfect

Rather than creating a long list of foods you can never have, focus on sustainable habits: eat a varied and balanced diet, avoid smoking and recreational drugs, keep caffeine moderate, and avoid alcohol when trying to conceive.

If you are undergoing fertility treatment, follow the advice of your fertility clinic because recommendations may differ depending on your treatment and health.