Which tea should I avoid in Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, it's important to be aware of the ingredients and caffeine content in the tea that you consume. 

The NHS recommends limiting your caffeine intake as much as possible during pregnancy, as high levels have been linked to pregnancy complications.

High-Caffeine Teas
Black Tea, Green Tea, Oolong Tea, and White Tea, all contain caffeine, which in high amounts can lead to increased risk of pregnancy complications, such as low birthweight, and even miscarriage.

It's recommended to limit caffeine intake to 200 mg per day during pregnancy, which is roughly equivalent to one 350ml cup of coffee.

Tommy's has a very useful caffeine calculator on their website, which can help you to calculate your caffeine consumption during pregnancy, as it is also found in foods such as chocolate.

Herbal Teas
Some herbal teas need to be avoided, or only consumed during the latter stages of pregnancy or postpartum. This is because they can stimulate the uterus or increase blood pressure. It is important to always check the ingredients and follow NHS guidelines if they contain the following:

Raspberry Leaf: Often recommended to prepare for birth in the third trimester, but it can stimulate the uterus and should only be consumed from 32 weeks pregnant.

Liquorice Root: Contains glycyrrhizin, which can affect hormone levels and can raise blood pressure.

Sage: Contains thujone, which can trigger uterine contractions.

Pregnancy safe tea
Ginger Tea - Often recommended for nausea and morning sickness, our Morning rescue contains whole leaf, anti-inflammatory, calming herbs. Blended to aid digestion and soothe unsettled tummies, heartburn and indigestion.

Rooibos Tea - is caffeine-free and rich in antioxidants. Brewed with a small splash of milk it is a great alternative to black tea.

Peppermint Tea - can help with digestive issues, but should be consumed in limited quantities. From 32 weeks pregnant you can start drinking The Final Push Raspberry Leaf tea. It contains peppermint to naturally sweeten, but it can also help if you are suffering from heartburn and indigestion. Start with one cup a day from 32 weeks, increasing to two cups per day from 33 weeks, and up to 3 cups a day from 34 weeks.

Fruit based herbal teas - as long as they do not contain liquorice. Our Get Up & Glow can be enjoyed throughout pregnancy. Bursting with tropical fruits, it is naturally high in vitamin C, to give you a natural boost without caffeine.

Whilst you are allowed to consume up to 200mg of caffeine during pregnancy some women decide to cut it out completely, choosing decaffeinated options. Please be aware that these will still contain a small amount of caffeine. 

If in doubt please speak to your healthcare professional, use Tommy's caffeine calculator, and follow the NHS guidelines to not drink more than 3 cups a day of any one type of herbal tea a day.