Pregnancy is a soft and life-changing experience, and every pregnant woman wishes to ensure the health and security of her developing child. While well-nourished foods, proper hydration, and enough rest are frequently highlighted, one consideration that might sometimes be underemphasised is the choice of drinks, most notably herbal tea and ordinary beverages like milk tea. A common question that arises is: Does milk tea consumption during pregnancy carry the risk of more complications? Let us examine the science and determine the interaction between tea consumption and pregnancy complications, identifying teas to avoid during pregnancy and whether there is any connection with teas that cause miscarriage during pregnancy
While herbal teas are generally seen as a healthier alternative to caffeinated drinks, not all herbs are safe for pregnant women. Some herbs have uterine-stimulating effects or hormonal activity that may be problematic in early pregnancy.
Among the teas to avoid during pregnancy the most commonly mentioned are:
● Pennyroyal Tea: This is an herb of ancient times known for having abortifacient characteristics and is also referred to as one of the teas causing miscarriage during pregnancy.
● Black Cohosh and Blue Cohosh: Both these herbs are very potent and used by people of olden times to induce labour, which causes the uterine walls to contract.
● Dong Quai: Used traditionally in Chinese medicine, this herb may stimulate the uterus's muscle and therefore should be avoided at best.
● Liquorice Root Tea: Though sweet, it may lead to high blood pressure and preterm labour complications.
It is vital to carefully note the ingredients of teas and consult your healthcare provider before consuming herbal blends while pregnant. What is a comfort drink before bed for one person can be an issue for another during early pregnancy.
One of the most frequent questions is whether it is safe to consume milk tea during pregnancy. While milk tea may not technically be a "herbal tea," it typically contains black tea, which also has a high amount of caffeine. Excessive caffeine consumption during pregnancy can cross the placenta and end up in the developing fetus. Explain that high intake of caffeine has been associated with low birth weight or other pregnancy-related complications in a few studies.
The majority of medical recommendations advise pregnant women to take less than 200 mg of caffeine daily. A normal cup of milk tea contains 30–60 mg of caffeine in 200 ml. Therefore, one cup daily will probably be safe, but excessive portions, especially if sweetened and with artificial flavourings, can have unfavourable effects on health.
There is no firm scientific evidence that directly relates drinking milk tea during pregnancy to miscarriage. However, excessive intake of caffeine, as well as other poor dietary habits, may result in higher pregnancy complications. When consumed with some unsafe herbal components or in excess amounts, milk tea may also contribute to overall caffeine excess or hormonal imbalance.
It's not just about the tea itself, often, commercial milk teas or bubble teas come with additives, high sugar content, and sometimes untested flavouring ingredients. These extra ingredients might not be healthy for pregnant women to consume, especially if taken regularly or in large amounts.
Therefore, moderation is essential. If milk tea is your go-to comfort drink, it's best to:
● Have only one small cup a day.
● Choose varieties with lower sugars and no artificial flavouring.
● Ensure that the tea used to infuse the drink is caffeine-moderate (i.e., not strong black or green tea).
Your tea ingredients can impact everything from hydration to hormonal balance and uterine tone. That's why health professionals recommend avoiding teas that cause miscarriage during pregnancy, especially the first trimester when the pregnancy is still establishing.
Even seemingly innocuous herbal ingredients such as chamomile or peppermint can have contraindications in pregnancy for certain people. So, it's always best to check with your gynaecologist or dietitian before adding new teas to your routine.
At Cloudnine, we focus on the mother's well-being through the integration of medical attention, lifestyle advice, and a balanced diet. We are also aware of the bewilderment pregnant individuals experience with food decisions, including tea.
Our experts help you understand product labels, hear about herb interactions, and personalise a plan according to your course of pregnancy. Cloudnine antenatal classes often include an education on healthy drink choices, not just the teas to avoid during pregnancy, but also recommendations of safe herbal teas that will help digestion, reduce bloating or calm nausea.
We also offer nutrition planning consultations, where our experts can guide you on caffeine limits and safe alternatives to milk tea or other sweet drinks.
Although tea may be a source of comfort and relaxation, it should be remembered that not all teas are safe during pregnancy. Some herbal ingredients may pose real risks, particularly in early gestation. Teas that induce miscarriage during pregnancy, like those with pennyroyal or cohosh, should be completely avoided. Besides, although the intake of milk tea during pregnancy in small amounts may not be directly risky, excessive intake or hidden ingredients may create problems.
If you're unsure what's safe and what's not, always consult with a medical practitioner. At Cloudnine, we provide evidence-based, compassionate care that's tailored to each stage of pregnancy. Book your consultation today to ensure every sip you take nourishes both your well-being and your baby's development.
