If you have been drinking up until the point
when you become pregnant or smoking it is also vital that you stop doing
so immediately. Many women worry that they consumed a few alcoholic drinks
prior to learning they were pregnant. If you are concerned you should talk
with your healthcare provider. Chances are that everything will be just
fine as long as you stop immediately. At this time there are no recommended
safe limits of alcohol to consume during pregnancy, thus it is best that
you avoid alcohol all together.
Smoking is equally as harmful for a mother during pregnancy. Smoking can
also affect your unborn fetus, potentially contributing to birth defects
or respiratory problems later in life. Did you know that when you smoke
your baby is receiving less oxygen than they normally would? This can cause
your baby to grow less rapidly than they might normally, and may also contribute
to preterm labor, which can be potentially life threatening for your infant.
If you are a smoker when you find out you are pregnant, be sure to consult
with your healthcare provider immediately about your condition. Your healthcare
provider can work with you to develop a plan for quitting that is manageable
and something you can learn to live with during your pregnancy. There are
also numerous support groups available for mothers who are trying to quit
during and even after pregnancy. Remember that the sooner you quit smoking,
the sooner you start providing your unborn child with the best possible
outcome for a healthy and safe delivery and later life.
Here are some avenues of support if you are trying to quite smoking during
pregnancy:
National Partnership to Help Pregnant Smokers Quit
http://www.helppregnantsmokersquit.org/
The American Legacy Foundation
http://www.americanlegacy.org/americanlegacy/skins/alf/home.aspx
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About the author:
Article by Beverley Brooke, author of "Ensure a healthy safe pregnancy
for you and your baby", visit http://www.pregnancy-weight-loss.comfor
more on smoking during pregnancy
Circulated by Article Emporium
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