The following is a transcript of a report by medical editor Marilyn Brooks that first aired Jan. 21, 2008, on WTAE Channel 4 Action News at 5 p.m.

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A steaming hot cup of coffee is just what a lot of people need to get going in the morning but not if you're pregnant. A new study published in the journal of Epidemiology and the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology claims all caffeine is off limits for pregnant women.

Doctors have long warned their pregnant patients not to drink too much caffeine. The new study warns you against caffeine in any form, including coffee, tea and soft drinks.

Researchers said they think that caffeine affects cellular development and can constrict the blood vessels in the placenta, so there's decreased flow to the baby, which might cause a miscarriage.

Researchers found drinking more than 200 milligrams of caffeine a day, about one-and-a-half cups of coffee, doubles the risk of miscarriage.

"What's different about this study is that it shows that, that a fairly low level of caffeine may be associated with miscarriage and that's important," said Dr. Tracy Flanagan of Kaiser Permanente.

Doctors have long advised pregnant women to limit caffeine. Now, Flanagan is counseling her patients to give it up altogether.

Tammy Oren used to drink about five cups of coffee a day. She doesn't know if it caused her miscarriage seven years ago. But she decided to quit drinking coffee for her later pregnancies.

"I figured, if I can take out all the unhealthy things in my life, than the chances that I am going to have a healthy pregnancy are going to be greater," she said.

So, if you're pregnant and looking for an energy boost, doctors suggest taking a brisk walk or yoga. You can even go ahead and get that grand latte, but make it a decaf.

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