Information About Smoking During Pregnancy

Although cigarette packages include warnings about the dangers of smoking during pregnancy, most people are not exactly sure what the actual risks are. If more women read information about smoking during pregnancy, fewer women would be likely to be willing to risk the health, and potentially the life, of the babies growing their bodies. Here are some of the possible consequences of smoking during pregnancy.

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Studies have linked smoking during pregnancy to an increased risk of the child developing attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children with ADHD have a difficult time controlling their impulses and staying focused.

Death at Birth

Babies run a higher risk of dying during birth if the mother smoked during the pregnancy.

Death in Infancy

While all babies run the risk of succumbing to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), the risks are higher for babies whose mothers were smoking during pregnancy.

Heart Damage

A baby's heart can be damaged if his mother smokes during the pregnancy. This can result in the baby being born with congenital heart defects.

Lung Damage

Smoking during pregnancy can damage the lungs of the growing fetus, resulting in the baby suffering from childhood asthma. Asthma is an incurable, chronic condition that could potentially be fatal.

Premature Baby

Babies are more likely to be born prematurely if their mother smokes during the pregnancy. Premature babies are more likely to weigh less than an average baby, which can lead to serious health issues.

Resources

• March of Dimes
• Smoking During Pregnancy Can Increase Risk Of ADHD In Child
• Smoking during Pregnancy Linked to Childhood Asthma