Smoking harms both the mother and the growing fetus. Smoking while pregnant reduces the baby's blood and oxygen supply. Cigarette smoke decreases blood flow in the mother and to the baby by causing blood vessels to constrict. Chemicals in the smoke replace oxygen in the blood and move through the mother s blood stream to the baby. Do not smoke even after the baby is born.
Secondhand smoke is especially harmful for babies.
Babies exposed to secondhand smoke have a higher number of ear infections, asthma, or other lung diseases. Frequent ear infections can make it difficult for the baby to hear properly. Babies who do not hear well may have a harder time learning to talk. Smoking affects the mother's health as well. Smoking increases the chance of getting cervical cancer.