Do’s and Don’ts of Pregnancy

Smoking and Pregnancy

Smoking is harmful to your unborn child. This is a fact. Here is a list of possible risks that smoking while pregnant may cause:

Cigarette smoking causes 1 out 10 miscarriages

Twice as likely to have an ectopic pregnancy (one that attaches itself outside the uterus and cannot survive)

Premature and low birth weight

Underdeveloped lungs and life-threatening breathing problems

Possibly 2 out of 3 cases of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) may be smoking related

Is 3 times more likely to have asthma

Is two times likely to be hospitalized as a baby

Is 5 times more likely to get meningitis (brain infection)

Is 50% more likely to have a cleft palate

50% more likely to have more cavities in the teeth

Is 5 times more likely to become addicted to drugs- especially males

Have more ear infections, colds, and lung infections

Often have ADHD

Have IQs up to 10 points lower than others

Quitting Tips

Set a date for quitting

Get rid of all cigarettes and ashtrays in your home, car, and work

Avoid activities and places that make you want to smoke

Quit with a buddy, join a group, or find a counselor

Replace your cigarettes with gum or water

Don’t give up, it usually takes several tries before you actually quit

For Every Great Battle, There is a Great Victory!!