For pregnant women struggling to quit smoking, a recent study suggests that e-cigs may offer a safe alternative. The study, covered in a Pulse Today article, sheds light on the potential benefits of using e-cigs during pregnancy to kick the smoking habit. So, whether you want to learn more about the subject or you need to quit smoking yourself after a recent positive test, reading this blog is a great opportunity to understand why vaping during pregnancy is a viable option for quitting combustible cigarettes.
The study
According to the research, originally a research report in Addiction Journal, vaping during pregnancy could be a promising strategy for pregnant women attempting to quit smoking. The study indicates that e-cigs, which do not contain the harmful tar found in traditional cigarettes, might serve as a safer alternative for those seeking to break free from the addictive clutches of nicotine.
What were the results?
Data from 1,100 pregnant smokers at 23 hospitals in England found that the use of e-cigs was more common than other nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs), with around 47% of smokers opting to use them when compared to only 21% for other NRTs.
Researchers measured nicotine levels in saliva samples at the start and end of the study and also looked at birth weights—regular use of e-cigs was not associated with any adverse outcomes.
Is vaping during pregnancy safe?
The study highlighted that while vaping during pregnancy is not recommended long-term, it’s a great means of quitting combustible cigarettes entirely or simply cutting tobacco out of the equation. Since combustible cigarettes expose both the mother and the developing fetus to harmful chemicals and toxins, e-cigs help to eliminate the inhalation of tar and reduce many of the associated risks that come with traditional smoking.
Conclusion
Vaping during pregnancy, according to the study, is a viable and potentially safer option for pregnant women striving to quit smoking. As the medical community continues to explore alternatives for smoking cessation, e-cigs, with their reduced exposure to harmful substances, might emerge as a valuable tool in supporting the health and well-being of both expectant mothers and their unborn children.
Do you know someone who successfully quit smoking during pregnancy using e-cigs? Drop a comment below to share your experience.
