Is it safe to drink coffee, dye my hair, or take Tylenol while pregnant?

Coffee and caffeine

You do not have to give up coffee. ACOG states that moderate caffeine, defined as less than 200 mg per day, has not been shown to cause miscarriage or preterm birth. That is roughly one 12-ounce cup of brewed coffee.

Caffeine adds up from more than coffee. Tea, soft drinks, chocolate, and energy drinks all count toward your daily total, so factor them in when you are pacing your intake.

Hair dye

Coloring your hair is generally considered safe. Most experts do not consider hair dye toxic to the fetus, because only a small amount of the chemicals is absorbed through the scalp, and this applies to permanent, semipermanent, and temporary color.

Many people still wait until after the first trimester as a precaution, since data is limited. Techniques like highlights or foils keep the dye off the scalp, which reduces absorption further. Working in a ventilated space and wearing gloves are sensible extra steps.

Pain and fever: acetaminophen is preferred

Acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, is the over-the-counter pain and fever reliever recommended during pregnancy. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed, and only as needed.

You may have seen headlines questioning acetaminophen and child development. ACOG has reviewed the research and found no clear evidence of a direct causal link, and it has continued to affirm that acetaminophen remains a safe and appropriate choice when used sensibly. If you have concerns or take it often, talk with your provider.

Why to avoid NSAIDs, especially after 20 weeks

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are a different story. This group includes ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin. In 2020 the FDA advised avoiding NSAIDs at 20 weeks or later, because they can cause rare but serious fetal kidney problems that lower amniotic fluid.

The caution increases in the third trimester. At 30 weeks and later, NSAIDs are avoided because of the added risk of premature narrowing of a fetal blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus. One exception is low-dose aspirin, sometimes prescribed to help prevent preeclampsia, which your provider may direct you to take. Always check with your provider before using any NSAID in pregnancy.

• Avoid ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin at 20 weeks or later
• Avoid them even more strictly at 30 weeks and beyond
• Low-dose aspirin is an exception only when your provider prescribes it

Related questions

How much coffee can I drink while pregnant?

Keep total caffeine under 200 mg a day, about one 12-ounce cup of brewed coffee. Remember that tea, soft drinks, chocolate, and energy drinks also count toward that limit.

Is it safe to dye my hair during pregnancy?

It is generally considered safe, since only a small amount of dye is absorbed through the scalp. Many people wait until after the first trimester as a precaution, and highlights or foils reduce scalp contact further.

Can I take Tylenol while pregnant?

Yes. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the preferred over-the-counter pain and fever reliever in pregnancy. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, and talk with your provider if you take it often.

Can I take ibuprofen during pregnancy?

Avoid ibuprofen and other NSAIDs, especially at 20 weeks or later, because they can cause fetal kidney problems and low amniotic fluid. After 30 weeks they are avoided even more strictly. Use acetaminophen instead unless your provider advises otherwise.

Sources & further reading

1. ACOG — How much coffee can I drink while I'm pregnant?
2. ACOG — Is it safe to dye my hair during pregnancy?
3. FDA — Avoiding NSAIDs in Pregnancy at 20 Weeks or Later
4. ACOG — Response to Consensus Statement on Paracetamol Use During Pregnancy

This article reflects current AAP, CDC, and other public-health guidance and is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. ParentFlow is a wellness companion — not a substitute for your pediatrician. For any medical concern, contact your healthcare provider.