How Harmful Is Secondhand Smoke Exposure for Pregnant Women?

The hazards of secondhand smoke exposure during pregnancy are generally significant. Frequent exposure to secondhand smoke not only adversely affects the pregnant woman but may also impair fetal development in utero. Involuntary inhalation of secondhand smoke can weaken the mother’s immune system and increase susceptibility to infections. Moreover, regular exposure to secondhand smoke during pregnancy may elevate the risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the child after birth. During pregnancy, it is essential to breathe fresh air regularly.