Tobacco use disorder complicating pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium Save

Tobacco use disorder complicating pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium

Tobacco use disorder is a serious health concern that can have negative impacts on pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) reports that tobacco use disorder is the most common preventable cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. Pregnant women who smoke are at increased risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth, including premature birth, low birth weight, placenta previa, and stillbirth. In addition, smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Despite the risks, many women continue to smoke during pregnancy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 7% of women in the United States smoke during pregnancy. This percentage is highest among women aged 20-24 and those who are uninsured or on Medicaid.

It's important to note that tobacco use disorder is not limited to smoking cigarettes. Other forms of tobacco use, such as smokeless tobacco and electronic cigarettes, can also have negative impacts on pregnancy and childbirth. Smokeless tobacco use during pregnancy has been linked to stillbirth and preterm birth, while the use of electronic cigarettes during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.

How can tobacco use disorder during pregnancy be prevented?

The best way to prevent tobacco use disorder during pregnancy is to quit smoking before becoming pregnant. However, for women who continue to smoke during pregnancy, there are still steps that can be taken to reduce the risks. The ACOG recommends that pregnant women who smoke should be offered smoking cessation counseling and support. In addition, healthcare providers should advise pregnant women to avoid exposure to secondhand smoke and to limit their use of other forms of tobacco.

Conclusion

1. Tobacco use disorder is a serious health concern that can have negative impacts on pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium.
2. Pregnant women who smoke are at increased risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
3. Tobacco use disorder is not limited to smoking cigarettes.
4. The best way to prevent tobacco use disorder during pregnancy is to quit smoking before becoming pregnant.
5. Pregnant women who smoke should be offered smoking cessation counseling and support.
6. Healthcare providers should advise pregnant women to avoid exposure to secondhand smoke and to limit their use of other forms of tobacco.

By taking these steps, healthcare providers can help to reduce the negative impacts of tobacco use disorder on pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium. If you are pregnant and currently smoking, talk to your healthcare provider about quitting