Question: Do you know what the most commonly used substance during pregnancy is?
Answer: Nicotine.
If you are pregnant and still smoking, here are a few reasons why you should try to quit:
- Smoking during pregnancy can cause tissue damage in the unborn baby, particularly in the lungs and brain.
- Some studies suggest a link between maternal smoking and cleft lip.
- Studies also suggest a relationship between tobacco and miscarriage. This is because carbon monoxide in tobacco can keep the developing baby from getting enough oxygen.
- Mothers who smoke are more likely to deliver their babies prematurely.
- Babies whose mothers smoke during pregnancy are about three times more likely to die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
What about e-cigarettes? Those are just as addictive and unhealthy as regular cigarettes and therefore not safe to use during pregnancy. Nicotine is a health danger for pregnant women and developing babies in both delivery methods. Additionally, some of the flavorings in e-cigarettes may be harmful to your baby.
If you need help quitting, please reach out. Call us at 573-475-8688.