Pregnant or trying to conceive?
Here’s what all NZ mums-to-be should know about smoking while pregnant or while trying to conceive…
Attitudes towards smoking have changed over the years as we have learned more and more about the potential harmful effects. For example, it used to be thought that only smoking while pregnant could harm your child but it is now known that passive smoking can be damaging too and even smoking before conception can be harmful. It can take smokers longer to conceive but it's not just the woman's smoking that can be the cause. Men who smoke should really think about quitting too, as smoking can affect the quality and mobility of their sperm.
What actually happens if you smoke during pregnancy?
When you smoke you inhale lots of dangerous chemicals that affect your circulation. For example, smoking replaces oxygen in your blood with harmful carbon monoxide. This means if you were smoking while pregnant, your baby would receive less oxygen and nutrients and more chemicals while they are in the womb. This in turn means their heart would have to work harder, and babies need oxygen and nutrients to develop and grow well.
How smoking while pregnant affects your baby?
Babies of pregnant women who continue smoking are more likely to suffer ill effects and complications can arise during pregnancy so it’s important to talk to your health care professional to understand what the effects of continued smoking during pregnancy can have on your baby.
Try to stop smoking before you get pregnant
If you quit before you get pregnant, not only will you get your baby off to a better start in life but it will make it easier to avoid smoking during your pregnancy and afterwards.
Help to stop smoking for mums-to-be
The great news is - since the dangers of smoking have become more well-known, help with giving up smoking is much more widely available. Your health care professional should be able to give you lots of advice and encouragement and put you in touch with local support groups. Many people find it easier to quit if they have someone helping them along.