Devastating Side Effects of Smoking During Pregnancy You Need to Know
Smoking during pregnancy is one of the most harmful things a pregnant woman can do. It can have significant negative effects on both the mother and the developing fetus. In this article, we will discuss 10 side effects of smoking during pregnancy.
Low Birth Weight
Babies born to women who smoke during pregnancy are at risk of being born with low birth weight. This can lead to various health issues for the baby, including respiratory distress syndrome, developmental delays, and poor growth.
Premature Birth
Smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of premature birth. Premature babies are born before 37 weeks of gestation and may face various health problems such as breathing difficulties, infections, and even death.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Infants born to women who smoke during pregnancy are at a higher risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is the unexplained death of a baby less than a year old. Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of SIDS by two to three times.
Respiratory Problems
Smoking during pregnancy can lead to respiratory problems in the developing fetus. Babies born to women who smoke during pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems.
Congenital Disabilities
Smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of congenital disabilities, including cleft lip and palate, heart defects, and limb abnormalities.
Placenta Issues
Smoking during pregnancy can lead to problems with the placenta, the organ that nourishes the fetus. These problems can lead to complications such as preterm labor, placenta previa, and placental abruption.
Developmental Delays
Smoking during pregnancy can lead to developmental delays in the baby. These delays may be physical, cognitive, or behavioral and can affect the baby’s overall development.
Increased Risk of Infections
Smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of infections in both the mother and the developing fetus. These infections can lead to various complications, including premature birth and low birth weight.
Behavioral Problems
Babies born to women who smoke during pregnancy are at a higher risk of behavioral problems such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and conduct disorders.
Childhood Cancer
Smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of childhood cancer, including leukemia and lymphoma.
Smoking during pregnancy can have significant negative effects on both the mother and the developing fetus. Women who smoke during pregnancy are putting their baby’s health and development at risk. It is essential to seek help to quit smoking to minimize the risks associated with smoking during pregnancy.
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