Smoking During Pregnancy

Consider the Facts About Smoking During Pregnancy:


1. When you smoke... so does your baby.

When you smoke you inhale poisons such as nicotine and carbon monoxide. These poisons get into the placenta, which is the tissue that connects you to your baby and sends oxygen and nutrients and eliminates wastes. These poisons keep your baby from getting the proper supply of nutrients and oxygen that he or she needs to grow.

2. Smoking during pregnancy can cause low-birth weight, preterm delivery, and infant death.

According to the American Lung Association, smoking during pregnancy is estimated to account for 20 to 30 % of low-birth weight babies, up to 14 % of preterm deliveries, and about 10 % of all infant deaths.

3. Second-hand smoke can also cause problems for your baby.

According to the American Lung Association, new studies have shown that if a woman is around second-hand smoke during pregnancy, there are added risks. You have a greater chance of having a baby that weighs too little and may have health problems.

4. There can be long term health risks for your baby.

Smoking during pregnancy can cause your baby to have more colds, lung problems, learning disabilities, and physical growth problems.

5. Nicotine replacement therapy such as the patch can still affect your baby.

Before using any nicotine replacement or cessation aids, you should discuss it with your health care provider. You and your provider can discuss what is more beneficial for you and your baby.

The Benefits for You and Baby If You Don’t Smoke:

• Lowers the risk of your baby being born underweight or too early

• Increases the amount of nutrients and oxygen that your baby will receive

• Lowers the risk of your baby having health problems

• Increases the chances that your baby will go home with you from the hospital

• Lowers your risk of future health problems such as heart disease, cancer, and lung problems

• Gives you more energy to go through your pregnancy

• Reduces your risk of dying

• Saves you money

(See More On Pregnancy and Smoking In Our Video Section)