A new study shows that despite all the risks, one in five white women still smoke cigarettes during pregnancy.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration conducted the study.
Results showed that 21.8 percent of white women age 15 to 44 admitted to smoking cigarettes while pregnant. 14.2 percent of black women, and 6.5 percent of Hispanic women, respectively, also admitted to having cigarettes while having a baby.
The March of Dimes website has several reasons why smoking during pregnancy is harmful.
"When you smoke during pregnancy, your baby is exposed to dangerous chemicals like nicotine, carbon monoxide and tar. These chemicals can lessen the amount of oxygen that your baby gets."
But that's not all. Women who smoke during pregnancy are more likely to have an ectopic pregnancy, vaginal bleeding, placental abruption or previa, or have a stillborn baby.
Babies who are born to smoking moms may also have a plethora of health issues, such as defects like cleft palats or lips, low birthweight, or born premature.
The American Cancer Society acknowledges that it is hard to quit smoking, and their website has information and tools to help you take steps to enhance the length and quality of your, and your baby's life.
