The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) issued a recommendation to providers to support perinatal smoking cessation.
“Smoking is one of the most important modifiable causes of poor pregnancy outcomes in the United States.” -ACOG
Research shows that maternal smoking during pregnancy has many complications
for both mother and baby. Some of these include:
Even secondhand smoke increases Mom’s risk for having a low birth weight baby by 20%. Whenever possible, pregnant women should avoid second-hand smoke.
Will cutting down help? While cutting back is better than nothing, there is no substitute for clean air. Talk TO your doctor about quitting now. The greatest benefits come from quitting before 15 weeks of
gestation, so don’t delay.
While quitting smoking may be easy for some readers, it is quite difficult for others. Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation programs in your area and about methods of quitting.
Thinking about quitting but haven’t set a date? Consider November 18, the Great American Smokeout. The American Cancer Society suggests that smokers quit for a day. Many businesses look for ways to support smokers as they attempt to quit for 24 hours (and maybe for good!) This year’s motto, “Less cancer; more birthdays,” has special meaning to pregnant women and their partners.
1. Smoking During Pregnancy Increases Risk for Preterm Birth. Nancy A. Melville. Preventive Medicine 2010: the Annual Meeting of the American College of Preventive Medicine (ACPM): Abstract 212669. Presented February 19, 2010. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/717666
2. Study reported at the American Heart Association 2006 Scientific Sessions shows. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/548088
3. Smoking During Pregnancy Affects Speech-Processing Ability in Newborn. Alexandra P.F. Key; Melissa Ferguson; Dennis L. Molfese; Kelley Peach; Casey Lehman; Victoria J. Molfese. Posted: 04/27/2007; Environmental Health Perspectives. 2007;115(4):623 http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/554844
4. Maternal Smoking in Pregnancy, Fetal Development, and Childhood Asthma. Jouni J.K. Jaakkola; Mika Gissler. Posted: 01/12/2004; American Journal of Public Health. 2004;94(1).
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/466776
5. Child obesity significantly increases the risk that a child will become an obese adult. Am J Clinical Nutrition 2005:82:393-8
This section contains articles and guidance for healthy eating whether you are working on becoming pregnant, expecting or have a new baby. Articles cover information including what to eat, controlling nausea, breastfeeding and vitamins.