So, you just found out you’re pregnant, and now you’re doing everything you can to stay healthy and protect your baby. But there’s so much to think about, and to be honest, it can feel a little overwhelming. One thing that often causes a lot of confusion is what foods are safe and what foods could pose a risk to your pregnancy. If you’re wondering, "Can food really cause a miscarriage?"—you’re not alone. It’s a worry many women have, especially when they’re bombarded with a mix of advice from family, friends, and the internet.
First off, take a deep breath. I know this is freaking you out a bit, but you’re not alone. Miscarriages happen more often than you might think, and most of the time, they are outside of anyone’s control. The good news? You’re in the driver’s seat when it comes to your health—and we’re here to guide you through it with clear, simple, and reliable information.
In this blog, we’re going to break down the facts around foods that may be linked to an increased risk of miscarriage. But don’t worry—we’re not going to scare you with over-the-top warnings. Instead, we’ll focus on what you can control and help you feel empowered, informed, and ready to make the best choices for you and your baby.
What is a Miscarriage?
First, let’s clarify what we’re talking about. A miscarriage is a pregnancy loss that happens before the 20th week. It can be devastating, but it’s important to understand that most miscarriages are completely out of your control and don’t usually happen because of something you’ve done wrong. In fact, around 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage, and in many cases, it’s due to something genetic, like an abnormality in the baby’s chromosomes.
You may feel a lot of anxiety around this, and that's normal. But trust me, you’re not alone in this experience.
Foods That Can Cause Miscarriage
Let’s get to the big question: can the food you eat increase your risk of miscarriage? The short answer is: yes, certain foods can pose a risk if they aren’t handled properly or if they contain harmful bacteria or chemicals. But don’t panic! Most of the risks are easy to avoid with a little awareness.
Here are some foods to be cautious about:
1. Unpasteurized Dairy Products
Unpasteurized milk, cheese, and yogurt can carry bacteria like Listeria—which is especially harmful during pregnancy. Listeria can cause an infection that may lead to miscarriage or preterm birth. Always go for pasteurized options, especially when it comes to soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and feta.
2. Raw or Undercooked Seafood, Eggs, or Meat
Raw foods can harbor bacteria and parasites that can cause food poisoning. Fish like sushi-grade tuna, salmon, or shellfish should be avoided, as well as raw eggs and undercooked meats. Salmonella and toxoplasmosis, both linked to raw animal products, can increase the risk of miscarriage.
4. Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables
If you’re eating fruits and veggies that haven’t been washed properly, you might be exposing yourself to toxoplasmosis—a parasitic infection that could lead to a miscarriage. Make sure to wash your produce thoroughly or peel it when possible.
5. Excessive Caffeine
It’s okay to have a cup of coffee every now and then, but too much caffeine can interfere with your pregnancy. High levels of caffeine can be linked to a higher risk of miscarriage, especially in the early stages. Aim to keep your caffeine intake to under 200 milligrams a day (about one 12-ounce cup of coffee).
6. Papaya (Unripe or Semi-Ripe)
While ripe papaya is perfectly safe and even nutritious, unripe or semi-ripe papayas contain latex and an enzyme called papain, which can trigger contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage. It’s best to avoid papayas that are still green or just slightly ripe.
7. Raw Sprouts
Raw sprouts, and mung beans, can contain harmful bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella. These can easily cause foodborne illnesses and complications in pregnancy. It’s better to avoid raw sprouts or to ensure they’re cooked thoroughly before eating.
What Can You Do if You’ve Consumed These Foods?
Okay, so maybe you’ve already eaten some of these foods without realizing their risks. Don’t stress out—most of the time, a single slip-up won’t cause any harm to your pregnancy. Here’s what you can do if you’re worried:
- Don’t panic: Just because you’ve eaten something risky doesn’t mean it will lead to a miscarriage. Your body is resilient, and many women go through pregnancies with a few bumps in the road.
- Hydrate and rest: If you’ve consumed something that could cause harm, drink plenty of water and rest. If you feel fine afterward, you’re probably in the clear.
- Monitor for symptoms: Keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms like severe cramping, bleeding, or flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, body aches), which may indicate an infection. If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor.
Myths About Miscarriage Risks
I know that every time you talk to someone, it feels like they have a new “fact” about what can cause a miscarriage. But here’s the thing: most of the time, these myths are just that—myths. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions:
- Myth 1: Stress can cause a miscarriage.
It’s normal to feel stressed, especially during pregnancy, but stress alone doesn’t cause miscarriage. However, chronic stress can impact your overall health, so managing it is always a good idea. - Myth 2: A miscarriage is your fault.
This is probably one of the hardest things women hear, but it’s absolutely not true. Miscarriages are often due to factors beyond anyone’s control, like genetic abnormalities. - Myth 3: All caffeine is bad.
A little caffeine won’t hurt most women, as long as you keep it under the recommended amount. Moderation is key.
Best Foods for a Healthy Pregnancy
Now that we’ve talked about what to avoid, let’s shift the focus to what’s good for you and your baby. Here are some pregnancy-friendly foods that will nourish both of you:
- Leafy greens (like spinach and kale) – Full of iron and folate, essential for fetal development.
- Whole grains – Oats, quinoa, and brown rice are great for fiber and energy.
- Lean proteins – Chicken, turkey, tofu, and lentils are fantastic sources of protein to support your baby’s growth.
- Healthy fats – Avocados, nuts, and seeds help with brain development.
- Fruits – Berries, citrus, and bananas are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
- Dairy – Full-fat, pasteurized dairy provides calcium for strong bones and teeth.
How Can Proactive For Her Help?
Pregnancy can feel like a lot to handle, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Proactive For Her, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our OB-GYNs are experts in women’s health and pregnancy, and we believe in providing care with no judgment—just real, helpful advice to support you and your baby.
If you’re ever unsure about what to eat, feel free to book a consultation with us. We can guide you in the right direction and ensure that you’re making the best choices for your health and your pregnancy
Conclusion
You’ve got this, and you’re not alone. Understanding what foods to avoid and what to eat for a healthy pregnancy doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Most of the time, it’s about being aware, making informed choices, and listening to your body. Remember, it’s perfectly normal to feel a little confused, but with the right information and support, you can navigate this with confidence.
At Proactive For Her, we’re always here for you—no judgment, just care. You deserve a stress-free pregnancy, and we’re here to make sure you get the support and information you need to stay healthy.
Book a consultation today to get the right care and all your questions answered for a safe, healthy pregnancy!
FAQs
Q. Can spicy food cause miscarriage?
A. No, there's no scientific evidence that eating spicy food causes miscarriage. In fact, many pregnant women crave spicy food. However, spicy foods can cause heartburn and indigestion, which can be uncomfortable.
Q. Is it safe to eat papaya and pineapple during pregnancy?
A. Yes, it's generally safe to eat ripe papaya and pineapple during pregnancy in moderation. However, you should consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
Q. What are the early signs of a miscarriage?
A. A miscarriage usually starts with vaginal bleeding. This could range from light spotting to heavy bleeding. In most miscarriages, you will also experience lower abdominal pain, which may feel like period pain or severe cramps. As a miscarriage progresses, you may also pass fluid and blood clots from your vagina.
Q. Can caffeine consumption increase miscarriage risk?
A. According to current research, consuming high levels of caffeine during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, particularly when consuming more than 200mg per day; however, moderate caffeine intake (less than 200mg) is not considered a major contributing factor to miscarriage risk by most medical professionals.
Q. How does alcohol or smoking affect pregnancy?
A. If you are pregnant, or planning to be, now is the time to stop smoking and drinking alcohol.By giving up, you are protecting your baby and reducing the risks to their development and future health. It is also one of the best things you can do for your health.
Q. What lifestyle changes can help prevent miscarriage?
A. reduce the risk of miscarriage, lifestyle changes that can help include: maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, avoiding smoking and alcohol, limiting caffeine intake, taking prenatal vitamins including folic acid, managing stress, exercising moderately, and seeking prompt medical attention for any infections or concerns during pregnancy
Q. Can food poisoning lead to a miscarriage?
A. Yes, food poisoning can increase the risk of miscarriage. Pregnant women are at higher risk of foodborne illnesses, which can lead to miscarriage or premature birth.
Q.How does dehydration affect pregnancy and miscarriage risk?
A. Dehydration during pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of complications, including low amniotic fluid, which can potentially contribute to miscarriage by affecting the baby's development and potentially triggering early labor; therefore, staying adequately hydrated is crucial throughout pregnancy.
Q. What medical treatments are available after a miscarriage?
A. Medical treatments for a miscarriage include medication, expectant management, and a surgical procedure called dilation and curettage (D&C). The treatment you receive depends on your circumstances and how much pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus.