smoking while pregnant?

mrskilcrease · January 2015

I know I'm crazy for even talking about it but I'm a former smoker and this pregnancy has made it hard to stay not smoking. I have quit. But I was wondering who all has gone thru this and dealt with the emotional part of quitting. Sometimes I think about having one. But then I just feel guilty. Who's been thru this emotional and physically

Jessica16393 · January 2015

I smoked during my daughter pregnancy years ago. She was born with a heart murmer and just recently after 4and 1/2 yrs of regret it finally closed up.

mrskilcrease · January 2015

Wow. I stopped the day I found out . I'm about 3 and a half months. And I caved and had half of one last month but all I could do was think about my baby:( but then there's days like today where I just wanna buy a pack soooooo bad

Trampslikeus · January 2015

I'd say a good 30-40% of the kids on my caseload with learning disabilities had parents who smoked. Many of them were also low birth weight.

I mean, this is a pretty clear cut one dude. It causes oxygen deprivation. Oxygen deprivation damages the brain almost instantly.

I understand quitting is VERY hard, so I don't judge, but PLEASE, don't go seeking out anecdotes of people who happened to be lucky enough not to damage their children in an effort to minimize what you're doing. Own it and do your damndest to quit. Best of luck.

mrskilcrease · January 2015

I have quit. I just was hoping there was someone out there that went through the same thing. Quitting wise and staying that way. I didn't mean for it to sound like I wanted to know the outcome of the baby. And yes it's hard but I figured hearing from a few woman who have been thru what I am going thru now. emotional wise would help just a little.

Trampslikeus · January 2015

mrskilcrease said:

I have quit. I just was hoping there was someone out there that went through the same thing. Quitting wise and staying that way. I didn't mean for it to sound like I wanted to know the outcome of the baby. And yes it's hard but I figured hearing from a few woman who have been thru what I am going thru now. emotional wise would help just a little.

Okay - thats a very different question from the one you asked.... I'd edit your post to clarify. Congrats on quitting, thats awesome.

mrskilcrease · January 2015

I'm not asking if it's Okay to smoke. I'm asking who all has been thru it and has some advice on how to deal with it.

TLeec16 · January 2015

I remember when I was pregnant with my first son twelve years ago at lamaze class they played a video for us. It showed the umbilical cord of a mother who didn't s moke verses a mother who did. I'll never forget that image.
I've never smoked so it's easy for me to say "what are you crazy/nuts for even wanting to have one while pregnant" honestly I'm sure it's hard to stop but please please do stop. It can cause so much harm. Google some videos I'm sure those images will get the urge to smoke out of your mind.

mrskilcrease · January 2015

Okay I'm not asking for rude reply. I just worded it wrong. I've never done this and I thought it would help. I'm a first time mom and never had to quit smoking. Since I have I've had some trouble with thinking about smoking.

Trampslikeus · January 2015

mrskilcrease said:

Okay I'm not asking for rude reply. I just worded it wrong. I've never done this and I thought it would help. I'm a first time mom and never had to quit smoking. Since I have I've had some trouble with thinking about smoking.

OP - no one is being rude. You specifically asked "who smoked while pregnant and what were the outcomes?" but now you're saying that's not what you are asking.... those are your exact words... so I hope you understand our confusion. Maybe re-word your post and add a note that it was edited for clarification so readers understand better what you're asking us for?

mrskilcrease · January 2015

Thank you TLeec16 it does help the urge a bit just thinking about that. Just wish it was a little easier. I wanna find a good way to just knock the thought.

mrskilcrease · January 2015

Like I said I've never done this and I worded it wrong. I edited it because I went back and read the way you were seeing it. I'm not asking permission to smoke. I'm not asking for u to tell me ur kid was fine after smoking. Now that this is clarified, you know what I was trying to get across

mrskilcrease · January 2015

Well thanks everyone. I know this post was kinda dumb. But thanks anyway for posting your thoughts. Have a good new year

Ashfinski · January 2015

I totally understand the urge. I quit 2 years ago but I still get that "feeling" every now and again. What you do with your body is one thing but giving your baby the best future and life is worth so much more that cravings. I had to get another emotional "crutch" to use to make myself feel better about whatever shitty situation I found myself in. One of the proudest things I can say is my babies (#2 due in June) has never had nicotine in their bodies. The urges will go away, just give it time and don't indulge. Go eat ice cream instead!

mrskilcrease · January 2015

Ashfinski said:
I totally understand the urge. I quit 2 years ago but I still get that "feeling" every now and again. What you do with your body is one thing but giving your baby the best future and life is worth so much more that cravings. I had to get another emotional "crutch" to use to make myself feel better about whatever shitty situation I found myself in. One of the proudest things I can say is my babies (#2 due in June) has never had nicotine in their bodies. The urges will go away, just give it time and don't indulge. Go eat ice cream instead!

Thank you!:) I'll definitely try the ice cream:)

matiekae · January 2015

OP, hang in there! It is tough, but think of who your doing it for. Whenever I think about it I envision some one blowing smoke in my baby's face. That helps immediately. I have had dreams about having one drag and feel so guilty when I wake up... I know I'll remain smoke free while pregnant, it's going to be more challenging for me after he/she is born.

finchfeeder80 · January 2015

I quit almost four years ago because it was just time for me. Some days I don't think about cigarettes, some days I can still taste them. I loved my nasty little habit and I mourned it's passing in my life. I know that stress gives me the urge to smoke, but I'm stubborn so I just ride it out. The craving will pass shortly. Now, if I could just apply this philosophy to food, I'd really be making progress!

thelittlestbee · January 2015

I smoked for 15 years before I finally quit. For years I was afraid that the smoking had done so much damage to my body that I wouldn't be able to get pregnant, and despite that - I kept on smoking. The day I found out I was pregnant was the last day I smoked a cigarette. It has been very difficult for me, especially because DH still smokes and it's probably the only thing I ever get mad at him for these days.

My best advice is to just take it day by day. It does get easier. I still get urges sometimes, but I haven't given in. No cigarette is worth the damage I would be causing to my unborn child.

There's a pretty good book called Easy Way to Stop Smoking by Allen Carr that really gets into the psychology behind why people smoke and the best way quit for good.

mrskilcrease · January 2015

I'll have to check that book out:)) I sorta feel better knowing that there's easy ways to get through this. It's all a matter of me getting over the thought of it. And not thinking of that the second I get stressed.

ACWinn · January 2015

I would check out the book @thelittlestbee‌ recommended. I had to read it twice, but it is the only thing that worked for me. Not only did it allow me to quit, it allowed me to quit knowing I would never smoke again, and that is a GREAT feeling!

b4ebeth · January 2015

I only quit about 2 weeks after my BFP. I did it slowly. I knew and still know that the hardest part was my brain wanting it. Its getting past that part that is hard. Its just your brain, your body doesnt need it. Other friends I have that are quit for years still tell themselves, "I'm just not gonna smoke today". One day at a time, find what works.

And then to help even more, my friends daughter is a nursing student. She said that the umbilical cord of a smoker baby is like a string vs a rope.

gilder40 · January 2015

I'm a non-smoker, and have never smoked, so bear with my one-sided opinion.

The little baby you're carrying is relying on you for EVERYTHING, And has NO CHOICE in what happens to it or what it receives while in your body. As adults, we can move away from those who are smoking to avoid second-hand smoke, we can decide what foods to eat, or what drinks to drink. That little precious life inside you has NO CHOICE. All the carcinogens and chemicals from smoking will pass directly to your little one. Everytime you think about smoking, imagine...would you let someone light up a cigarette and blow it in your kiddos face? Would you keep your kiddo in a room with hardly any fresh air and just smoke? In your body, they can't move away for fresh air. And the consequences are detrimental.

Good luck with keeping strong and keeping that habit at bay. I hope you can find the strength to avoid smoking for not only your pregnancy, but for your life. Your sweet baby will need you for many years to come.

gilder40 · January 2015

Sorry for my soap-box rant.

lelaa12 · January 2015

I actually found out I was pregnant because I had a really bad aversion to the cigarettes and usually i was fine smoking as much as I wanted... After the aversions stopped I would get so angry at my SO because he would smoke so much and pretty much rub it in my face I was craving one so bad but I haven't had one and won't have one... If I can last 9 weeks without one I last my whole pregnancy... Maybe not touch another cigarette all together .

thelittlestbee · January 2015

gilder40 said:

I'm a non-smoker, and have never smoked, so bear with my one-sided opinion. The little baby you're carrying is relying on you for EVERYTHING, And has NO CHOICE in what happens to it or what it receives while in your body. As adults, we can move away from those who are smoking to avoid second-hand smoke, we can decide what foods to eat, or what drinks to drink. That little precious life inside you has NO CHOICE. All the carcinogens and chemicals from smoking will pass directly to your little one. Everytime you think about smoking, imagine...would you let someone light up a cigarette and blow it in your kiddos face? Would you keep your kiddo in a room with hardly any fresh air and just smoke? In your body, they can't move away for fresh air. And the consequences are detrimental. Good luck with keeping strong and keeping that habit at bay. I hope you can find the strength to avoid smoking for not only your pregnancy, but for your life. Your sweet baby will need you for many years to come.

This is EXACTLY what you should think about every time you get a craving! It's just not worth it! Also, you might want to google pictures of a smoker's placenta or umbilical cord vs. a non smoker's. I've seen that suggestion a couple of times on these boards.

blue7fairy · January 2015

I hear you!! I quit right when I found out, it's been 15 weeks since I last smoked, and while I would never actually pick one up its still hard, I have dreams that I am smoking then even in my dreams feel guilty. I feel bad even wanting one since I know how bad it is, although I won't have one it is really hard to quit and the fact that it is the best thing for your child doesn't get rid of the emotional withdrawal, it was my coping skill for years and while an unhealthy one it was still what I went to when stressed and let's just say pregnancy is stressful so it's a struggle with cravings. I guess I don't have advice since it seems you are doing it! But I can say your not alone it's really hard!!

willowprincess · January 2015

My mother worked in an office with people who smoked. She herself did not, but because of the exposure to second hand smoke I was born with a blackened umbilical cord and have had respiratory issues my whole life. Breaking an addiction is one of the hardest things to do, but just keep reminding yourself of what you are doing for your child.

staciecoffey · January 2015

mrskilcrease said:
I have quit. I just was hoping there was someone out there that went through the same thing. Quitting wise and staying that way. I didn't mean for it to sound like I wanted to know the outcome of the baby. And yes it's hard but I figured hearing from a few woman who have been thru what I am going thru now. emotional wise would help just a little.

I've had a hard time with it, I only smoke when I am beyond stressed and of course since I've been pregnant all I have been is super stressed(work/school/about to start building a House) When I find myself really itching to smoke I'll eat candy(it's my vice) or I'll crotchet. This keeps my mind off it and eventually I stop stressing. It's not easy to stop smoking the second you find out that you're pregnant so I commend you for doing so! Also try fruit!! It's great for you and baby, and I find the act of dipping fruit in fluff(cream cheese, marshmallow fluff, and a little strawberry jello for flavor) gives me the whole hand to mouth motion of smoking but without hurting me or baby.

amby90 · January 2015

Im just admit it is hard at times! I was a chain smoker before I found out I was pregnant. I honestly could've never seen myself give up. I had tried and tried. The day I found out I was pregnant I gave up right there on the spot. I haven't even had one puff since that day! I'm now 19weeks! I'm not going to lie there have been times when iv been stressed out etc and really craved one but when I think about my baby and the guilt of just poisoning him kills me. I just feel so selfish if I ever did decide to smoke again or even have one puff. I know so many people who have smoked with their babies and they came out healthy. my own mum did with me as well. I wasn't harmed by it at all either, infact I was a huge healthy baby, nearly 10pound I guess I was just lucky. Stil made me abit cross knowing she did but oh well it's your choice at the end of the day, just try and make the right choice. You won't regret it

I don't think il smoke again after this baby. He's given me so much more reason not too. Be positive! This is a good thing. Well done for making the right choice.

atj13ne · January 2015

What might help you to not think about it, bc i know how hard it can be, i smoked 10 yrs ago with my 1st to pregnancies...by the grace of god and some miracle my first was perfect and healthy...BUT, My second was SO hard...he had asthma early on with gasping for breath problems, you have no idea how hard it is to watch ur baby gasp for breath like a fish out of water and know you are the one to blame, i couldnt believe how selfish i had been and made excuses about anxiety and depression making me smoke...thankfully after months of him being a screamer with asthma and being born addicted to nicotine, he grew out of it and by 6 all asthma gone...i will never no matter what smoke. But great job quitting keep it up. Just keep on mind just bc one baby is healthy doesbt mean the next will be.

Amandatosh · January 2015

As a never-been-smoker and can't give much comfort. But I think it's awesome that you quit! Good job!

I would, however, like to encourage you to try your hardest to not to go back once the baby is born. Or at least keep it far away from them.
My mom smoked while she was pregnant with me, and while I was otherwise healthy I was born with a murmur that has never gone away. It still drives me crazy sometimes.
I also developed an allergy to cigarettes, though there is no proof that this was caused from growing up in a smoke filled home. The fact that I was miserable every time my parents smoked and that they continued their addiction throughout my childhood and teenage years drove a hard wedge between us. They weren't bad parents at all and I never REALLY doubted that I was loved. But I just couldn't understand doing that to your child.
Everyone's story and experiences are different! I just wanted to give you a little something to think about before you pick up a pack in 6 months.
I'm so proud of you for quitting! Good luck!

mrskilcrease · March 2015

This is a late response but thanks you guys so much! Im now due about 3 months from now and all your advice helped! I haven't thought of smoking at all:) infact I even get kinda sick around them. So I just wanted to say thanks to everyone and all the support: )) you guys are awesome!

apreseau · March 2015

I don't think your post is dumb I'm very much pregnant I'm due in June and I smoke I don't smoke alot but i do smoke the stress from quitting smokin can cause you to miscarry and I know that bc my doctor told me. He doesn't recommend smokin but he also told me cutting back was fine. My son measures perfect every time I go to the doctor and every time I see my doctor he tells me how healthy my baby boy is. I don't think that you should be shunned by ppl if you're smokin bc you definitely could be doing worse things.

mandakate82 · March 2015

@apreseau Yeahhhhh there are worse things, like smoking crack!

What a great way to start off parenting, by justifying doing awful things to your baby by saying it could be worse. I just hit my kid, but it's ok because at least I'm not lighting him on fire!

Also "stress" does not cause miscarriages. Fact.

Jesus...

Zeuskay01 · March 2015

apreseau said:
I don't think your post is dumb I'm very much pregnant I'm due in June and I smoke I don't smoke alot but i do smoke the stress from quitting smokin can cause you to miscarry and I know that bc my doctor told me. He doesn't recommend smokin but he also told me cutting back was fine. My son measures perfect every time I go to the doctor and every time I see my doctor he tells me how healthy my baby boy is. I don't think that you should be shunned by ppl if you're smokin bc you definitely could be doing worse things.

Are you serious right now??

ElRuby · March 2015

I was wondering the same thing... Either this is sarcasm or reality.... The second being really scary!

Addelie · March 2015

This thread makes our June 15 group look awful for a number of reasons. I vote we let it drop to the depths.

Britbomb · March 2015

Keep thinking about the wonderful thing you did for your baby by quitting and how healthy and happy he/she will be. Smoking could keep him/her from a healthy life and you're not going to let that happen! Way to go mom!

taboullio84 · March 2015

apreseau said:
I don't think your post is dumb I'm very much pregnant I'm due in June and I smoke I don't smoke alot but i do smoke the stress from quitting smokin can cause you to miscarry and I know that bc my doctor told me. He doesn't recommend smokin but he also told me cutting back was fine. My son measures perfect every time I go to the doctor and every time I see my doctor he tells me how healthy my baby boy is. I don't think that you should be shunned by ppl if you're smokin bc you definitely could be doing worse things.

You might want to check into finding another Dr.

katyertl · March 2015

taboullio84 said:

apreseau said:
I don't think your post is dumb I'm very much pregnant I'm due in June and I smoke I don't smoke alot but i do smoke the stress from quitting smokin can cause you to miscarry and I know that bc my doctor told me. He doesn't recommend smokin but he also told me cutting back was fine. My son measures perfect every time I go to the doctor and every time I see my doctor he tells me how healthy my baby boy is. I don't think that you should be shunned by ppl if you're smokin bc you definitely could be doing worse things.
What.the.f*ck?!

mrskilcrease · March 2015

Again this is a later response but I am 7 months and I haven't touched a smoke:) im so Happy I put my child's health over my bad habit. Im sure there are worse things then smoking. But at least I know I did what's best:) my baby girl is going to be here in 12 weeks or less and I know she will be as healthy as ever! Thanks everyone for your advice and support. Quitting definitely was a stressor but totally worth it! I feel ten times better too:3

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