Published: January 31, 2008 01:10 pm            

Healthy pregnancies equal healthy babies

Submitted by the Department of Human Resources



ATLANTA — A recent study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology advises pregnant women to reduce their caffeine intake or cut it out entirely as it may increase the risk of miscarriage.

The study shows that pregnant women who consume 200 milligrams or more of caffeine a day, 10 ounces of coffee or 25 ounces of tea, may double their risk of miscarriage. Caffeine use also impacts birth outcomes and the overall health of unborn children. The Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Public Health, Office of Birth Outcomes encourages mothers-to-be to adopt behaviors and practices, such as limiting their caffeine intake, that benefit the health of their children.

“Our agency is dedicated to promoting optimal women’s health, healthy pregnancies and healthy babies through our various programs, resources and community services,” said Dr. Stuart Brown, director of the Division of Public Health. “Promoting healthier behaviors among pregnant women, such as reducing caffeine intake, helps decrease Georgia’s infant mortality rate which is one of our major goals.”

According to the Office of Birth Outcomes, reducing or eliminating caffeine intake is just one way pregnant women can decrease their risk of miscarriage and promote the health of their child. Pregnant women can also increase their chances of having a healthy baby by:

• Getting health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure under control;

• Making healthy eating a top priority;

• Avoiding harmful substances and secondhand smoke;

• Beginning or continuing to be active on a regular basis.

The Office of Birth Outcomes offers various services and resources that provide pregnant women with education about the impact of caffeine use and the importance of adopting healthier habits during pregnancy. Programs such as Babies Born Healthy offer financial services for prenatal care for mothers without insurance.

For additional tips on how women can remain healthy during pregnancy, please visit online http://health.state.ga.us/programs/women/pregnancyplanning.asp or call the Office of Birth Outcomes at (404) 657-3143.

        

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