Women's lifestyle behaviors while trying to become pregnant: evidence supporting preconception guidance

Abstract

Objective: We sought to prospectively measure women's daily cigarette, alcohol, and caffeine use, while attempting pregnancy in relation to intentions to change.

Study design: This was a cohort comprising 90 women enrolled upon discontinuing contraception and followed up prospectively until pregnant. Women reported number of daily cigarettes, and alcoholic and caffeinated beverages for 459 menstrual cycles while attempting pregnancy.

Results: A significant mean reduction in daily caffeinated drinks (estimate [EST] = -0.52; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.70 to -0.33) was observed when compared to baseline usage. Intention to change was associated with a reduction in caffeinated drinks (EST = -0.32; 95% CI, -0.64 to 0.00), and with alcohol and cigarette usage from the first menstrual cycle (EST = -0.15; 95% CI, -0.28 to -0.02 and EST = -1.65; 95% CI, -3.12 to -0.19, respectively).

Conclusion: A reduction in daily caffeine intake while attempting pregnancy was observed, but not in alcohol or cigarette use, underscoring the need for preconception guidance.