Vaping During Pregnancy - Experts Urge Caution Despite New Study

[Matthew Ma]

A controversial new study suggested vaping could be safer than smoking during pregnancy. But experts emphasize the unknown risks as other reports highlight potential e-cigarette dangers.

The Queen Mary University of London study found pregnant vapers had better outcomes than ongoing smokers. However, top obstetricians argue more evidence is needed before deeming vapes safe.

The Vaping Study Creating Controversy

The recent study suggested pregnant vapers saw higher birth weights and fewer respiratory infections versus ongoing smokers.

Researchers concluded switching to vaping could reduce smoking risks without nicotine causing detectable harm after the first trimester.

However, major health bodies advise against any vaping or smoking during pregnancy. They argue risks to lung and brain development remain unknown.

Expert Obstetricians Question the Safety

The Royal College of Obstetricians dismissed the study's claim that vaping is safe:

• "Smoking during pregnancy is known to be extremely harmful...But we don't know enough about vaping."


• "We strongly discourage vaping or using e-cigarettes unless under medical supervision."

The American College of Obstetricians similarly warns:

• "We don't know if these products are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding."


• "Pregnant women should avoid both cigarettes and e-cigarettes."

Potential Vaping Dangers Being Investigated

Other concerning reports highlight the possible risks of vaping for expectant mothers:

• Animal studies found nicotine from e-cigarettes crossed the placenta, potentially impacting fetal development.


• Chemicals in vape juice like formaldehyde are known carcinogens and toxins. Their effects on a developing baby remain unclear.


• One study linked vaping to a higher risk of preterm birth. More research is underway.


• Secondhand vapor may also contain trace nicotine and toxic compounds

Key Takeaways on Vaping During Pregnancy

While this small UK study suggested potential reduced harm from vaping over smoking, experts agree much more investigation is required before declaring e-cigarettes safe during pregnancy.

Major medical institutions strongly advise expectant mothers to avoid vaping or smoking altogether until clear evidence on risks and long-term impacts emerge. Non-nicotine cessation methods remain the recommended choice.

For pregnant women unable to quit entirely, speak to your doctor about whether NRT could provide a less hazardous alternative to ongoing smoking. But total abstinence from all tobacco and nicotine remains the official medical advice.

I aimed to provide a balanced perspective highlighting expert concerns about vaping safety during pregnancy, despite the initial study’s claims. Please let me know if you would like me to modify or expand this content further.