Q&A: What are the chances of a birth defect if I smoked in the beginning of pregnancy?

by Dr. Gerard M. DiLeo

What are my chances of having a baby with birth defects since I smoked cigarettes during the beginning stages of my pregnancy? My due date is December 24. I read that April 23 through May 28 would be the time my baby is most vulnerable for birth defects.

Actually the chances are pretty slim. The dates you give are at near mid-pregnancy. In later pregnancy, smoking can cause problems related to growth retardation because it causes a constriction of the blood vessels that supply nourishment and oxygen to your baby. If you've quit, you'll probably do just fine.

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