We know that SMOKING causes significant harm in pregnancy. The main risks are: preterm delivery, low birth weight, birth defects, bleeding during pregnancy and delivery, newborn respiratory problems, and higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome ('SIDS').
This is due mainly to the combustible toxins in cigarettes, including carbon monoxide.
But the role of NICOTINE by itself is less known. Animal studies link nicotine to poor newborn growth, and possible brain development concerns including nicotine dependence.
Nicotine while breastfeeding can also affect baby's digestion (causing colic and diarrhoea).
Also be aware that during delivery at hospital, you will probably not be allowed to vape anywhere on site. I recommend you transition to patches or gums ahead of time, if you cannot stop vaping completely. Labour is difficult enough, without adding nicotine withdrawals! Have an open discussion with your maternity care providers, and they will help you get through this period.
So this is what I recommend:
- Stay smoke-free.
- Vaping is ALWAYS safer than smoking.
- If you cannot stop vaping completely, aim to reduce it as much as possible.
- Consider reducing your nicotine use by using patches or other types of nicotine replacement therapies. There is more safety evidence for these in pregnancy and breastfeeding, compared to vaping.