Hot Tea and Pregnancy: What's Safe to Drink?

Pregancy is a delicate time for both mother and baby. It is important for pregnant women to be cautious about what they eat and drink. Hot tea can be comforting, but you may wonder if it is safe. Hot or not, certain teas are OK. However, always check with your doctor for your specific pregnancy.

Heat

• Beverages that are warm will not harm a fetus or embryo based on temperature alone. The only danger is to the mother; she may burn her mouth (whether pregnant or not).

Herbal Tea

• The effects of herbs on pregnancy has not been well researched, so most doctors recommend that pregnant women avoid drinking herbal tea (with some exceptions; see below). The FDA also cautions against it.

Black Tea

• Regular black tea is generally considered safe, although it should be consumed in limited amounts because of the caffeine (no more than 200 mg, or about four cups a day).

Chamomile Tea

• Chamomile has been tested and is generally considered safe in small amounts. It can also be soothing for morning sickness.

Green Tea

• There is inconclusive evidence about the effects of green tea. It may decrease folic acid's effectiveness, so some doctors advise to avoid it.

Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

• Taken in large amounts (over 32 ounces a day), red raspberry leaf tea may trigger contractions. Women who have not reached full term should avoid it, but some women who are full term do drink it to try to induce labor. Check with your doctor before trying this.