Smoking and Pregnancy

Smoking during pregnancy is one of the most avoidable causes of fetal death. Many women are motivated enough to quit smoking during pregnancy and it is therefore most essential to take advantage of this cessation opportunity. Cessation is very helpful for both the mother and the child. So pregnant smokers should be strongly encouraged to quit smoking throughout their pregnancy period and intensive counseling treatment should be provided to them. Even second hand smoking is dangerous for pregnant women. The following are the risks associated with second hand smoking:

•	The babies have a higher risk to death due to SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
•	The babies born may be small.
•	The babies might be restless, cranky and susceptible to diseases.
•	The babies are also more likely to suffer from learning problems.