Herbal teas are often very nutritious and supportive to health, but not all herbal teas are safe for pregnancy. Some herbs have an effect on the uterus that could put pregnant women at risk for miscarriage, cramping, bleeding. There are also herbs that have not been studied in regards to pregnancy and as naturopathic doctors we choose to err on the side of caution and advise women not to drink them during pregnancy. The safest bet: talk to your naturopathic doctor and have him or her choose the herbal teas that support a healthy pregnancy. Nettle tea, for instance, is very nutritive during pregnancy and many of the most common teas that are available, such as mint, lemon, blueberry, and so on are also safe for pregnancy. But when you buying more herbal-based teas, or teas with a combination of herbs, then you should be more cautious.
~ Michelle Stapleton is a Naturopathic Doctor practicing in downtown Toronto, Ont. Her practice focuses on family medicine. She is the mother of two young boys and understands the challenges of parenting, working, and bringing healthy living into family life.
