Perhaps you did not realize you were pregnant right away. So, while you may smoke e-cigarettes instead of regular ones – something that has been found to be potentially hazardous to pregnancies – you might be wondering if it’s safe to continue to vape while you’re pregnant. As you think about your options, and how you might want to move forward, it can be just as important to learn about your health as it is to gather reliable information about your choices. Your physical well-being matters. You may want to think about the types of professionals to include in your support network who can consult you about your health and your options.
Are you worried if vaping will have a negative effect on your pregnancy? Avenue Women’s Center has consulted a variety of women through their unique circumstances. We’re here to offer you accurate information and support within a confidential environment. Confirm your pregnancy with a free medical-grade test at one of our six Chicagoland centers. Afterward, our expert staff will meet with you for a private discussion about abortion, adoption, and parenting, walking you through each of these potential decisions and answering any questions to address your concerns.
Contact us today for limited medical services and referrals at no cost!
Are There Side Effects to Vaping While Pregnant?
While some people rely on e-cigarettes to help them quit smoking, vapes are typically still considered to be nicotine-delivery tools. It’s true that they produce vapor instead of smoke. But the heated liquid in them is mixed with nicotine and other chemicals that may be harmful to you during your pregnancy.
Nicotine usually causes your blood vessels to narrow. And its effects on your body can increase your risk of pre-term labor. The vapor is also more than just water. So, the aerosol mist it creates is often full of chemicals that can lead to birth defects. Some of these chemicals may include propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, diacetyl, and/or glycerol; and heavy metals such as nickel, tin, and lead. A few e-cigarettes may also contain artificial flavorings, which can cause the developing fetus to acquire deformities in the oral cavity or face.
If you’ve been vaping during your pregnancy, or you were using e-cigarettes prior to learning you were pregnant, you may want to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any complications. Even if you’re considering abortion, certain conditions may require medical treatment. It’s recommended you see a doctor so any problems can be detected as soon as possible.
What If the E-Cigarettes Are Advertised as ‘Nicotine-Free’?
You may still want to use caution when it comes to using e-cigarettes that supposedly do not contain any nicotine. Some vaping products have been found to still have traces of the chemical in them despite being advertised as “nicotine-free.” Other e-cigarettes that were said to not have any nicotine reportedly had 2-chlorophenol in them instead, which is a substance used in insecticides. This substance can be toxic to you, especially during your pregnancy. So, you may want to avoid inhaling it into your lungs.
Who Should I Talk to If I’m Worried About My Pregnancy Health?
You may be worried about what effects vaping may have on your pregnancy. Reach out to a medical professional. They can address your concerns. Also, first step pregnancy clinics are a good resource. They can often guide you towards the care you may need. If you’re worried about experiencing complications such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy, then these avenues of support can schedule an ultrasound exam to determine if there’s any risk of these conditions developing.
There may a lot to sort out when it comes to thinking about your health and your options. But having access to information through a professional can reduce feelings of anxiety that may come with doing research all on your own. Help is available to you. During this emotional time, having an encouraging network behind you to ensure your well-being and provide you with answers can inspire confidence.
Are you concerned about your health? Unsure if a habit may actually be harmful during pregnancy? Avenue Women’s Center offers reliable information and confidential services within a nonjudgmental environment. Our staff will walk you through each of your options. We’ll ensure you have a complete understanding of your choices, taking time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions.
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Reference:
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019, September 9). E-Cigarette Use During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding FAQs. Retrieved from: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/prenatal/Pages/E-Cigarette-Use-During-Pregnancy-Breastfeeding.aspx
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.