How Smoking Affects Pregnancy
Cigarette smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, including carbon monoxide, nicotine, tar,
and heavy metals such as lead and arsenic. When a pregnant woman inhales smoke, these
toxins enter her bloodstream and are carried directly to the developing fetus through the
placenta.
Two of the most harmful substances are:

• Nicotine, which restricts blood vessels and reduces oxygen and nutrient supply to the baby.
• Carbon monoxide, which decreases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, effectively
  starving the fetus of oxygen.

The Hidden Dangers for Babies

1. Growth and Developmental Problems: Smoking during pregnancy often leads to
   intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), meaning babies are born smaller than normal.
2. Increased Risk of Miscarriage and Stillbirth: Smoking increases the risk of miscarriage by
   up to 30–40%.
3. Premature Birth: Babies born too early are more likely to face lifelong health complications.
4. Congenital Defects: Exposure to tobacco during pregnancy has been linked to cleft lip and
   cleft palate.
5. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): Smoking during and after pregnancy more than
   doubles the chance of SIDS.

Long-Term Effects on Children
Children exposed to tobacco in the womb are at higher risk of:

• Asthma and chronic respiratory illnesses.
• Behavioral problems such as ADHD.
• Learning difficulties and lower academic performance.
• Increased likelihood of becoming smokers themselves later in life.

Secondhand Smoke: The Silent Threat
Even if a pregnant woman does not smoke, exposure to secondhand smoke can be equally
dangerous. Breathing in another person’s cigarette smoke allows the same harmful chemicals
to reach the fetus.

Quitting Smoking: A Gift to Mother and Baby
The good news is that quitting smoking at any stage of pregnancy can significantly improve
outcomes for both mother and baby. Within just a few days of quitting, oxygen levels in the
blood improve, and the baby immediately benefits from a healthier environment.

Conclusion
Pregnancy is a time when every choice matters, and smoking is one of the most harmful
choices a mother can make. Quitting smoking is not just about the health of the mother; it is
about giving a child the best possible start in life.
A smoke-free pregnancy is a profound gift of life, love, and hope for the next generation.