When a mother smokes during pregnancy, harmful chemicals like nicotine, carbon monoxide, and tar reach the baby. These substances reduce oxygen supply and impede growth, leading to various health complications. Recognizing the potential health issues linked to prenatal smoking is crucial for providing effective support.

Health risks associated with prenatal smoking

Children exposed to smoking during pregnancy may face several health issues, including:

  • Low birth weight and preterm birth: Smoking can cause the baby to grow more slowly and may result in being born too early (before 37 weeks).
  • Birth defects: There is an increased risk of orofacial clefts (like cleft lip or palate) and other birth defects.
  • Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): Babies exposed to smoke are at higher risk of SIDS.
  • Neurodevelopmental issues: Exposure can lead to anxiety, depression, ADHD, aggression, learning disabilities, and other developmental challenges.
  • Respiratory problems: These children may have a higher risk of lung issues, including asthma and respiratory infections.

Challenges for prospective adoptive parents and caregivers

Smoking during pregnancy is often combined with other substance use, making it difficult to separate the effects of smoking alone.

For prospective adoptive parents, especially in cases of international adoption, it may be difficult to get full information about the birth mother’s habits and link specific health concerns to prenatal smoking. This uncertainty can make it challenging to anticipate a child’s future needs. Adoptive parents and caregivers should be prepared for potential developmental, behavioural, or medical concerns and seek professional guidance to ensure they can provide the best possible support.

Treatment and support

Treatment will depend on the child’s specific needs. Early intervention and regular monitoring are crucial to providing the best support and therapies.

In BC, there are many services available to help diagnose special needs and support families. You can learn more about these services here: Services for children with special needs.

This resource is by no means intended as a substitute for a doctor’s advice or diagnosis. Any concerns you may have with regard to your child’s health and development should be discussed with a professional in an appropriate field.