Another Reason Not to Smoke While Pregnant: Birth Defects

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The researchers found that the more a woman smoked, the greater the likelihood of finger or toe anomalies. Women who smoked more than a pack a day had a 78 percent increased risk of having a baby with deformed toes or fingers, while women who smoked 11 to 20 cigarettes daily had a 38 percent increased risk. Those who smoked 10 or fewer cigarettes a day upped their babies' risk by 29 percent.

"This is another reason to stop smoking," said Dr. Alfred Robichaux III, chairman of obstetrics and gynecology at Ochsner Health System in New Orleans. "The problems with smoking during pregnancy are increased bleeding, miscarriage, premature deliveries and low birth weight. Babies born to mothers [who are] smokers have higher respiratory illnesses and lower IQs. They also have a higher rate of SIDS. And, now we have evidence that they have up to a 30 percent increase in limb defects.

"Thankfully, surveys are showing that the rate of smoking during pregnancy is on the decline. It looks like the word is getting out," Robichaux added.

Dr. Robert Welch, chairman and program director of obstetrics and gynecology at Providence Hospital in Southfield, Mich., said he wasn't surprised by this study's findings, since previous research has linked smoking to an increased risk of cleft lip and palette.

He said the best thing a woman can do is quit smoking before she gets pregnant.

"If you're contemplating pregnancy, that's when you want to stop," Welch advised. However, both Welch and Alvarez pointed out that it's never too late for a pregnant woman to stop -- or at the very least cut down -- on her smoking.

"We encourage women with each prenatal visit and may shorten the time between prenatal visits for extra support. We recommend smoking reduction with the idea that it will lead to cessation," Welch said.

Both experts said nicotine replacement products aren't recommended for pregnant women, but that many women have success quitting smoking using acupuncture. Both Welch and Alvarez said it's key for the woman's partner to quit smoking as well or stay away while smoking.

What's most important, said Alvarez, is to be upfront with your doctor about your smoking habit.

"I would rather know the truth, so I know why the baby isn't growing adequately. Tell me that you're having major difficulty quitting, and we can work on breaking the habit," Alvarez said.

More information

To learn more about the effects of smoking during pregnancy, visit the March of Dimes.