Reference Library

Smoking and Pregnancy

Tuesday, Apr 22, 2008

DEFINITION

There is a definite link between paternal and maternal smoking and the development of problems with pregnancy, low birth weight and birth defects.

DESCRIPTION

In the United States, cigarette smoking is estimated to account for between 21% to 30% of the incidences of low birth weight babies (newborns weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces). It is thought that cigarette smoke has a direct retarding effect on foetal growth. Women who smoke when pregnant have a greater risk of complications such as spontaneous abortion, stillbirth (where the baby dies prior to delivery), preterm birth (where the baby is delivered before 37 weeks), placenta previa (where the placenta is implanted in the lower, rather than upper, segment of the uterus), premature rupture of the membranes containing the foetus and amnionitis (inflammation caused by infection of the amniotic sac). Babies born to women who smoke are more likely to have brain and heart defects present from birth and birth defects of the face such as cleft lip. Smoking is also associated with SIDS .

Secondhand cigarette smoke in the air an infant breathes increases his/her risk of developing respiratory problems such as bronchitis and pneumonia during the first year of life.

A man who is a smoker prior to conception may develop sperm mutations which can contribute to the development of birth defects.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

In no way is this information intended to replace the advice of a medical practitioner. Always consult your Doctor for diagnosis and advice.
Pregnant women should not smoke as it places their health and the health of their baby at risk. Ask your Doctor for advice about ways to stop smoking.