A pregnant mother smoking poses numerous risks to her unborn child. While smoking, poisons pass from mother to child, which can cause permanent damage to the child during the crucial developmental stages. Many women are aware of at least some of the harmful effects to the child. However, as the dangerous effects of smoking are studied, researchers unveil a multitude of unexpected dangers to pregnant mothers and their babies.
Pregnant Mother Smoking
Not long ago, cigarette smoking was acceptable in public places, such as restaurants, shopping malls, and even on the job. Today, lighting up is limited to private places, such as your living room or sun porch. No matter where smoking occurs, an unborn child cannot escape the effects of smoking when pregnant mothers indulge. For this reason, warning labels are printed on cigarette packages, which serve to remind mothers of the hazards to their child's health. However, a warning label is merely a vague statement, which cannot disclose the whole truth. The following are some of the facts that describe the dangers to a pregnant mother smoking:
- Premature births
- Stillbirths
- Placenta previa
- Placental abruption
- Spontaneous abortion
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Delivery problems
- Brain damage during gestation
- Low birth weight
- Cleft palate and lip deformities
- Cancer-causing agents present in infant's blood
- Death caused by prenatal disorders
Additional Problems
In addition to the above problems, which can affect the pregnancy, other health complications may arise in the early years and extend into childhood. The following are some of the potential effects:
- Infantile colic
- Respiratory disorders
- Eye problems
- Childhood wheezing
- Mental Retardation
- Increased risks of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
- Weight problems among children
- ADD
- Abnormal blood pressure
- Behavioral problems and youth or adult violence
- Increased likelihood of smoking during adolescence
- Childhood leukemia
Secondhand Smoke and Pregnancy
Even mothers who maintain healthy habits, such as eating well, exercising, and abstaining from drugs or alcohol, may be presenting the same risks to their child. Many mothers fail to realize that these dangers also exist for nonsmokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke. To avoid complications, steer clear of cigarette smoke during your pregnancy. Ask smokers to step outside or to another room, and to refrain from smoking in the car or other places where avoidance is impossible.
Reducing or Quitting Smoking While Pregnant
Health Statistics report approximately one of every 10 pregnant women are smokers. In light of the countless risks, a pregnant mother smoking should consult a doctor for advice. Quitting may be difficult, especially for heavy smokers; however, cutting down is a great start. You can heighten your child's health prospects by drastically decreasing the number of cigarettes you smoke. Women planning to become pregnant should make an effort to quit well before conceiving, to ensure the best outcome for their babies. The following are some tools that may help you succeed:
- Exercise, such as yoga or other soothing activities
- Prayer, meditation, and measures for stress-reduction
- Smoking cessation programs
In addition, consider enlisting a partner to help encourage you and hold you accountable. A former smoker who is also a close friend or family member may be the ideal partner to offer support and sympathy in your struggle.
Conclusion
With every puff, a pregnant mother smoking cigarettes poses health risks to her child. Pregnancy typically lasts nine months, while the effects of smoking may linger for years.
