How is the Fetus Affected by Alcohol & Smoke?
Every fetus is busy during every stage of its growth to develop into a healthy human being. The womb needs to be a safe environment for these changes and growth to occur, with little influence from outside influences. Smoking and drinking alcohol offer nothing healthy for any fetus. Smoking and drinking during pregnancy are extremely dangerous to a fetus because nothing protects it from the harmful effects.
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The Facts
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Alcohol damages the developing fetus brain by crossing the placenta and entering the fetus' bloodstream through the umbilical cord. The blood alcohol content is much higher for the fetus than it is for the mother and it remains in the bloodstream longer because it cannot break alcohol down the way an adult body can, according to the Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Center.
Smoking is just as dangerous for unborn babies because it can cause placental abruption, miscarriages and premature births.
Brain Disorders
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Smoking is linked to many fetal behavioral and nervous disorders, according to an article published on Dr. Spock's website. Premature babies can experience learning difficulties their entire lives. The fetus' brain may not develop properly because of this lack of oxygen, which can lead to malformation or neurological disorders.
Alcohol can cause Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, and can lead to emotional problems, learning difficulties and mental retardation.
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Low Birth Weight
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Smoking and alcohol consumption almost doubles the risk of having a low-birth-weight baby, according to the March of Dimes. Smoking slows the rate at which the fetus grows and increases the risk of premature delivery. Premature babies face a host of serious health problems, which can lead to lifelong disabilities.
Growth Problems
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Women who smoke while pregnant expose the fetus to nicotine and carbon monoxide, which reduce the oxygen supply and contribute to a decrease fetal growth, according the March of Dimes.
A decline in fetal growth also happens with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Not only is growth stunted within the womb, but the child also continues to lag behind growth-wise throughout childhood years.
Other Risks
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Alcohol consumption by pregnant women increases the risk for miscarriage and there is evidence suggesting it may contribute to stillbirths, according to the March of Dimes. Binge drinking during the first trimester increases the likelihood for stillbirth to 56 percent. Children of drinking mothers have common characteristics, including small eyes, thin upper lips, reports the March of Dimes. Their organs are also at risk of improper development.
Smoking during pregnancy can causes vascular disease, which affects blood flow to the fetus. Placentas of smokers look older than they should because blood vessels become obstructed and calcified, according to Dr. Spock.
Warnings
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There is no amount of alcohol deemed safe for pregnant women. The healthiest choice is not to drink at all. However, the drinking behaviors that place a fetus at greater risk are binge drinking and consuming more than seven drinks per week, according the March of Dimes. Pregnant women should stop smoking, at least for the duration of their pregnancy.
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References
- Photo Credit pregnant belly button image by davidcrehner from Fotolia.com
