Originally published by the Voice of America (www.voanews.com).
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January 29, 2008

Stronger Evidence Links Caffeine to Miscarriage
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http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=1B151DA:A6F02AD83191E16026C08F2CBB1FED7FF47489ACC27D21EE& New study shows
even small amounts may increase risk Pregnant women have long been
told to limit the amount of caffeine they consume. Now a new study
shows caffeine may dramatically increase the chance of miscarriage.
VOA's Carol Pearson has more.





A new study shows that pregnant women who drink a cup and a half of
coffee a day -- or more than 200 milligrams of caffeine -- double
their risk of having a miscarriage.

And the warning goes for tea, caffeinated soft drinks and even some
medications.

One of the screening questions asked of pregnant women is, "During
this pregnancy, have you been drinking coffee at all?"







Dr. Tracy Flanagan"What's different about this study is that it shows
that a fairly low level of caffeine may be associated with
miscarriage. And that's important," says Dr. Tracy Flanagan,
who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology.

The research shows those who consumed less than 200 milligrams of
caffeine per day still appeared to increase their risk of miscarriage.

No one knows precisely why caffeine appears to have this effect, but
experts say it may increase a fetus's heart rate, or restrict blood
flow to the baby.

The study was conducted by the March of Dimes, a leader in infant and
maternal health.

At least one expert says most miscarriages result from abnormalities
in the fetus.

But the study's author says pregnant women should try to give up
caffeine for at least the first three or four months of pregnancy.


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