What Are the Risks of Smoking During Pregnancy?

I'm pregnant with my first child. But I'm worried because I've been a smoker since college and am afraid I won't be able to quit. How could smoking affect the pregnancy?
– Evangeline

It can be very hard to quit smoking. But it's important to do so as soon as possible. If you smoke during pregnancy, the nicotine, carbon monoxide, and other chemicals pass to your growing baby.

Smoking during pregnancy can cause:

• miscarriage or stillbirth
• premature birth
• a low birth weight
• sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
• asthma and other breathing problems

Talk to your doctor about ways to help you quit. Kicking the habit not only helps your baby, it also means you're on your way to better health!