Q&A: I smoked cigarettes and took flu medicine right after conception. Is my baby okay?

by Marie O'Sullivan, RN

Can you please tell me if taking a flu tablet and smoking cigarettes up to a few days following conception can have an effect on an unborn baby? I took a Codral cold & flu tablet the day I believe conception took place, and also smoked up to four or five cigarettes a day, until a few days after conception. I have read in a couple of different books that the embryo completely attaches itself to the uterus approximately eight to ten days after conception and that harmful influences such as smoking, alcohol and medication, only affect the embryo after that time. Is this correct?

What you have read is correct. The important thing is that you do not smoke anymore while pregnant. Also, ask your OB about any medications before taking them. There are medications that are safely taken during pregnancy, while others can be harmful. I hope this helps.

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