Even before a first positive pregnancy test, the mother is connected to her baby in more ways than one. Whatever a pregnant woman ingests, the baby also absorbs. If the mother drinks alcohol or smokes, the baby will also be impacted. Below are four complications that smoking can cause on both the mother and child during pregnancy.

Why Should You Avoid Smoking During Pregnancy?

1. Miscarriage & Stillbirth

The main concern for mothers who smoke during pregnancy is miscarriage. While miscarriages are more common during the mother’s first 20 weeks, they can happen afterward and become known as stillbirths. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the chemicals in cigarettes slow down fetal development and raise the likelihood of miscarriage or stillbirth.

2. Ectopic Pregnancy

The presence of nicotine in the mother’s body can lead to contractions in her fallopian tubes. The fertilized egg will be unable to pass through to the uterus while the tubes are contracted and will instead implant on the mother’s fallopian tube or abdomen. Also known as ectopic pregnancy, this form of implantation will not allow the baby to survive and can cause dangerous complications to the mother if she does not have the embryo removed.

3. Placental Abruption

Newly pregnant mothers usually take a pregnancy test and find out the news in their sixth week of pregnancy. By week 12, the fetus relies fully on the placenta for the necessary oxygen and nutrients. Smoking has been known to cause the placenta to separate from the uterus while the baby still remains in the womb. Placental abruption can also cause complications for the mother and baby and require immediate medical attention. While doctors cannot reattach the placenta after it has separated, they will do everything possible to minimize any physical harm to the mother or the baby.

4. Preterm Birth

Smoking can force a mother to go into preterm labor and deliver the baby well before her due date. The baby may still be in a crucial developmental stage, and an early birth can pose certain physical deficiencies, such as hearing, visual, learning, and behavioral impairments.

Even if the mother carries her baby to full-term, her smoking habits can still cause birth defects. The nicotine usually attacks the baby’s heart, damaging its structure and presenting long-term health problems for the child. Other defects from smoking can include a cleft palate or lip, developmental delay, and cerebral palsy.

For everything from pregnancy testing to ultrasounds, visit Women’s Care Medical Center of Baldwin County, offices located in Robertsdale and Gulf Shores, AL. For 30 years, this compassionate and professional medical team has provided expert prenatal care to women in all stages of pregnancy. Call (251) 947-2111 with any questions or visit their website to learn more about their pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and reproductive care services.