Coffee and Caffeine FAQ

Caffeine has long been suspect of causing mal-formations in
fetus, and that it may reduce fertility rates.
These reports have proved controversial. What is known is
that caffeine does causes malformations in rats, when
ingested at rates comparable to 70 cups a day for humans. Many
other species respond equally to such large amounts of caffeine.
Data is scant, as experimentation on humans is not feasible.
In any case moderation in caffeine ingestion seems to be a
prudent course for pregnant women. Recent references are Pastore
and Savitz, Case-control study of caffeinated beverages and
preterm delivery. American Journal of Epidemiology, Jan 1995.
A recent study found a weak link between
Sudden-Infant-Death-Syndrome (SIDS) and caffeine consumption by
the mother, which reinforces the recommendation for moderation
-possibly even abstinence- above.
On men, it has been shown that caffeine reduces rates of
sperm motility which may account for some findings of reduced
fertility.