How does smoking affect the mother and fetus during pregnancy?

Smoking is a harmful habit that greatly affects human health, and during pregnancy, its effect becomes more severe and dangerous for both the mother and the fetus. Smoking by a pregnant woman exposes her and the fetus to many health risks that may lead to serious complications.

The effect of smoking on pregnant women:

Increased risk of miscarriage: Smoking reduces blood flow to the uterus, which increases the possibility of miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy.

Placental problems: Smoking causes premature separation or deterioration of the placenta, and this may lead to severe bleeding and delayed fetal growth.

High risk of premature birth: Fetuses of mothers who smoke are more likely to be born prematurely, which exposes the child to many health problems.

The effect of smoking on the fetus:

Low birth weight of the baby: due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients reaching the fetus, which causes the birth of a small and weak baby.

Growth and development problems: Exposure of the fetus to toxic substances found in cigarettes affects the growth of its various organs and systems, especially the brain and lungs.

Increased risk of developing health problems after birth: such as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), breathing problems, and asthma.

Harmful effects of passive smoking:

Even if the pregnant woman is not a smoker, her exposure to cigarette smoke around her (passive smoking) causes her and her fetus the same risks as before.

Tips for pregnant women to avoid smoking:

Completely stay away from smoking places.

Seek support from family and friends to quit smoking.

Consult a doctor to get appropriate help in quitting.