Smoking combustible cigarettes is a harmful, addictive habit that has many adverse effects on the mind and body, especially for pregnant women. Though it’s becoming far less common to see people with a cigarette in hand alongside a growing tummy, it isn’t completely nonexistent. While relishing in the anticipation of parenthood may be enough for some women to quit cold turkey, others rely on the use of an innovative e-cig starter kit to help manage their combustible craving. While any type of nicotine-delivery to the body has the potential to cause harm to the unborn infant, the toxins found in traditional cigarettes outweigh e-cigs so greatly that The Royal College of Midwives (RCOM) is encouraging expecting mothers to use e-cigs to quit smoking.
Vaping is better during pregnancy
For most people who smoke, quitting cold turkey isn’t a viable option leading to a successful transition. In fact, a small number of the smoking population is able to manage the addiction on their own and instead they rely on nicotine replacement therapies, such as an e-cig starter kit, to help them kick the cravings. While RCOM acknowledges that e-liquid contains nicotine strengths that can be harmful to a developing baby, the levels are “far lower” than that of tobacco smoke. The truth is that smoking significantly increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, sudden infant death and birth abnormalities, while also damaging the mother’s health with maternal risks, such as placenta issues and eclampsia.
What is the RCOM’s position
Most families want to give their baby the best chance in life, that’s part of the reason that the RCOM supports this health-conscious change. Since one in ten women in England are smokers at the time they give birth, there has never been a more crucial time to address the issue.
“If a pregnant woman who has been smoking chooses to use an e-cigarette (vaping) and it helps her to quit smoking and stay smokefree, she should be supported to do so,” explained an RCOM media representative.
Why does RCOM support vaping?
While quitting all forms of nicotine-delivery is the absolute best way to protect a baby’s development, there are ways that vaping can benefit women who can’t overcome their smoking routine.
- Vaping offers nicotine strength variations that cater to different smoking habits.
- Vaping offers a safer way to breastfeed.
- Vaping offers an option to maintain a smoke free environment and lifestyle.
- E-cigs contain safer ingredients than the toxic contents of a combustible cigarette.
What are your thoughts on using an e-cig starter kit rather than smoking combustible cigarettes? Drop a comment below to start a conversation.
