Coffee Drinking Can Double Miscarriage Risk, Study Says

There are new questions about the safety of drinking coffee during pregnancy, with a new study finding that even two cups a day potentially doubling the risk of miscarriage. What this new research means for expectant women is not clear however: some doctors say pregnant women should avoid caffeine, while others say caffeine in moderation is OK.

According to an article on MSNBC, "the connection has been controversial, with some experts arguing that the research didn't account for morning sickness. The nausea and vomiting of morning sickness, caused by elevated hormones, is generally a sign of a reduced risk of miscarriage — and also can lead women to stop drinking their usual coffee or other caffeinated drinks." There was a concern that if women reduced their caffeine intake, it would create the impression that caffeine was associated with miscarriage.

IUDs Can Be Safe, Even in High-Risk Women

A new study has reported that intrauterine devices (IUDs) can be safe and effective contraceptives even for women who typically might not be considered for the device, because of factors ranging from multiple partners to a history of sexually transmitted diseases or pelvic inflammatory disease.

IUDs are implanted by a doctor or other practitioner, then remain in place, so there are no problems with forgetting to use them, as there are with condoms, sponges, etc. IUDs do not protect from STDs, however.

There are two main types of IUDS, which are typically T-shaped plastic devices. One type is wrapped with coils of copper wire; copper ions are deadly to sperm cells. The other type is coated with contraceptive hormones or drugs that prevent conception. Typically the drugs used are estrogens and progestogens.

The study, reported in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, notes that the IUD not used as commonly in the U.S. as in other countries, perhaps owing to concerns about health risks once associated with the IUD.