Smoking and Pregnancy

Ever tried? Ever failed? No matter... Try again! Fail again! Fail better!! The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are. Smoking had taken a toll over you. But now, you need to reverse the case. Quitting smoking is not going to be easy…but it is definitely going to be worth it! Smoking can be a real barrier towards conception. Be it active or passive, men or women… your baby just can’t take it! During IVF Procedure, mature eggs are collected from ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a lab. Then a procedure is done to place one or more of the fertilized eggs, called embryos, in a uterus, which is where babies develop. One full cycle of IVF takes about 2 to 3 weeks.

Will smoking make any difference for my unborn baby?

• Yes, smoking hampers an unborn baby’s health.
• Smoking during pregnancy will make the baby grow at a slower pace.
• Your baby’s birth weight will be too less than the normal weight.
• Birthing complications increase for the mother.
• Your baby can come out with weak motor skills. Also, there can be hearing problems, colds and breathing problems.
• There are around 4000 kinds of chemicals that can turn you towards cancer and there are going to be some reactions on your baby too.
• Smoke is definitely going to enter into the foetus through the placenta. There are no two ways about it.
• It can also affect IVF Procedure

Does a father smoking too can be a gamble?
Yes. Passive smoking too can affect a baby’s health. Encourage your partner to quit smoking as it is not going to benefit anyone around including himself.

• Conception is going to be a difficult thing if smoking is a closer partner.
• Men who smoke are surely going to gift their babies a damaged DNA.
• Damaged DNA automatically drives your baby in the disease zone.
• Passive smoking can leave your partner and baby uncomfortable.
• It can also affect IVF Procedure

I have heard, women gain weight once they quit smoking.  

Addictions start and get strong only because you use them to fill in the emptiness of your life. There may be many excuses that may try to stop you. Weight is another such factor that may make you think. When you stop smoking, you might tend to eat more only to replace smoking. You might put on some weight but that will not have any ill effects. This can be balanced with lots of physical activities, a good diet and staying hydrated.

How will I handle the stress that is generated during pregnancy after I quit smoking?

There are some ways with which you can help yourself lower stress levels.

• Move out of your place. Take a vacation.
• Stay away from toxic people.
• Yoga can help you a lot.
• Engage yourself in physical activity.
• Let your hobby control you. Painting, cooking, gardening or music.. Indulge yourself in your hobby.
• Drink lots of water.
• Try having at least 8 hours of sleep.
• Keep in touch with your doctor/counsellor for the low feelings you are struck with.

Will NRT help me during pregnancy?
Nicotine replacement therapy can surely help only if your doctor approves of it. NRT does not contain carbon monoxide and tar. This can surely support you while you are on the way to quit smoking. Do discuss with your doctor whether you can rely on NRT.             

Can I start smoking again after the delivery?
There is absolutely no reason for you to restart smoking. If you start smoking after delivery, the harmful toxins enter your milk and that enters your baby’s blood stream directly. However, if no smoke is making you lose your mind and your have controlled your intake, follow some important steps to ensure your baby’s health.

• Change your clothes before breastfeeding.
• Wash your hands after smoking and before breastfeeding.
• When you smoke, make sure you are at a considerable distance from your baby.

Stay strong with your goal. Giving up because of one setback is like slashing your other three tyres because you got one flat.
Each time you smoke, you move away from your family. Get out of the addiction and meet the new you who does not need to rely on toxic things just to feel better! Quit smoking and lead a guilt free life.

About the Doctor
Dr. Seema Jain is a gynecologist & fertility specialist at CheQKmate, renowned Fertility & IVF Center in Pune PCMC providing the best IVF Procedure support and care. Begin your journey towards parenthood with Dr. Seema Jain, Gynecologist & Fertility Specialist at CheQKmate, an advanced Fertility & IVF in Pune, PCMC. As a dedicated fertility specialist, she offers comprehensive care, ensuring tailor-made solutions. If you’re searching for the best fertility doctor in Pimple Saudagar, Pune, trust Dr. Seema Jain’s expertise. Our fertility clinic near you is committed to providing unparalleled services in a state-of-the-art facility.
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