Both caffeine and nicotine affect a pregnant woman's body, as well as her unborn child. Though caffeine can be tolerated during pregnancy in small amounts, large amounts are not healthy. Nicotine, or any type of tobacco use, always has negative consequences for both the pregnant woman and her infant. If you have trouble decreasing or stopping your caffeine or nicotine consumption, ask your obstetrician for the best way to quit and ensure your pregnancy is a healthy one.
Nicotine Effects
Whether you're pregnant or not, nicotine causes gum disease, cancer, heart disease and even stroke. Women who smoke may find it more difficult to become pregnant, reports the March of Dimes. Smoking during pregnancy increases your risk of having an ectopic pregnancy. This condition occurs when the fertilized egg begins to develop in the fallopian tubes, instead of the uterus, and the baby is not viable. You may experience additional vaginal bleeding and suffer from complications associated with the placenta if you are a smoker. The placenta may pull away from the uterine wall, known as placental abruption. The placenta may also cover the opening of the uterus or lie low, known as placenta previa. The risk of stillbirth is greater for women who smoke.
Caffeine Effects
A variety of items contain caffeine, not just your morning cup of joe. The stimulant is found in tea, chocolate, soda, medications and even decaffeinated beverages. Caffeine causes the heart rate to increase, blood pressure to rise and increased sweat production. Caffeine is a diuretic, so it decreases the amount of fluid in your body. Caffeine may decrease the amount of iron and calcium you absorb, and decrease the amount your unborn baby receives, reports Epigee.com. Pregnant women who drink large amounts of coffee, eight or more cups a day, have a 59 percent risk of miscarriage. Even consuming two cups of coffee per day slightly raises your risk of miscarriage.
Tips on Reducing Caffeine and Nicotine
Reduce caffeine and quit smoking for a healthy pregnancy for both mom and baby. Adk your doctor the best way to quit smoking, especially if you are a heavy smoker. Some medical professionals may suggest slowly tapering the habit to avoid additional stress on the baby, while others suggest quitting cold turkey. Look into smoking cessation programs and support groups. Decrease your caffeine intake by switching to decaffeinated beverages. Avoid caffeine withdrawals by reducing your coffee intake by one cup daily. Drink more water and exercise to avoid caffeine withdrawal symptoms.
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