Smoking traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes, heated tobacco, or other products with nicotine during pregnancy poses real and significant risks. Ideally, women who smoke should always quit before becoming pregnant. But if they don't, it's always worth quitting, and the sooner the better : In the first trimester of pregnancy significantly reduces risks and brings outcomes closer to those of non-smokers. In the second or third trimester of pregnancy also has benefits. For example, it improves fetal weight and reduces the likelihood of complications. Quitting smoking is one of the most important decisions to contribute to the healthy development of babies/children. Risks of smoking during pregnancy Tobacco smoke contains more than 7,000 harmful chemicals, such as nicotine, carbon monoxide, lead, and hydrogen cyanide. These substances cross the placenta (the connection between mother and baby), compromising nutrition, oxygenation, and elimination of toxins, functions that are fundamental to fetal development. Smoking during pregnancy has consequences for both mother and child, at any stage of development: from fetus to adulthood . Possible consequences for the mother Increased risk of pregnancy complications, for example: Placental abruption Premature rupture of membranes (bag of waters) Placenta previa Infertility; Increased risk of miscarriage; Ectopic pregnancy; Maternal thyroid dysfunction. Possible consequences for the baby Facial malformations (e.g., cleft lip); Prematurity (delivery before 37 weeks) and increased perinatal mortality; Intrauterine growth restriction; Low birth weight (<2500 g); Chronic fetal hypoxia and fetal death; Sudden infant death (twice the risk in mothers who smoke). Possible long-term consequences for the child Respiratory problems: increased incidence of asthma, bronchiolitis, and respiratory infections; Changes in neurological and behavioral development: attention deficits, lower cognitive performance; Obesity and increased cardiovascular risk in adulthood; Increased likelihood of becoming a smoker. Benefits of quitting smoking For the mother More energy and more efficient breathing; Reduced risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases; Financial savings; Clothes, hair, and an environment free from the smell of tobacco smoke; Better perception of food flavor; Recognition of individual effort for the benefit of oneself and the baby. For the baby Greater oxygenation and nutrition, starting from the first day without smoking; Better growth and development; Lower risk of premature birth; Lower risk of birth complications; Reduced risk of sudden infant death; Lower chance of respiratory diseases and childhood obesity. Professional support to quit smoking Quitting smoking can be difficult, but you don't have to go through this process alone. There are healthcare professionals ready to help you at any stage of pregnancy or postpartum. And professional support doubles your chances of success . Regular medical follow-up increases motivation and creates the ideal environment for adopting healthier habits. Every attempt is worthwhile and teaches you something new. Pregnancy is an excellent opportunity to quit smoking. By protecting yourself from tobacco, you're also ensuring your baby has a healthier start in life. And if your partner is also a smoker, take advantage and embark on this journey together. Specific smoking cessation consultations are available at Hospital da Luz. Talk to your doctor or a healthcare professional at Hospital da Luz. Count on us! Authors : Cristina Braço Forte ( pulmonology), Beatriz Maio (pulmonology intern ) and Élia Fernandes ( Gynecology-Obstetrics) Meet the pulmonology and the gynecology-obstetrics clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
