| 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. |
