Babies’ lungs are not completely mature at birth. It takes, on average, 2-3 years for infant lungs to develop and grow all of the small air sacs they need. Tobacco smoke irritates babies’ airways and affects the growth of their lungs. Premature infants born less than 37 weeks gestation are especially susceptible to lung problems. Exposure to tobacco smoke can make these problems worse. Second-hand smoke exposure puts babies born early at greater risk for serious airway infections and obstructions.
How Can You Protect Your Baby?
STOP SMOKING!
If you can’t stop immediately, try to smoke less frequently. The less you smoke, the smaller the chance that difficulties will arise for your baby. The risks to your baby increase if you smoke more than 20 cigarettes per day.
Don’t smoke immediately before or during breastfeeding. It will inhibit let-down and is dangerous for your baby.
If you choose to smoke, it is best to smoke immediately after breastfeeding to cut down on the amount of nicotine in your milk while nursing. Wait as long as possible between smoking and nursing. On average, it takes 95 minutes for half of the nicotine to be eliminated from your body.
Avoid smoking in the same room with your baby. Ideally, smoke outside and away from your baby. Do not let anyone else smoke near your baby.
Never smoke in your car with your baby. It is ILLEGAL in the state of California.
Remove ashtrays from your home and wash your clothes immediately to get rid of the scent.
It is never too late to quit smoking.
Start your quitting journey today! Here are some resources to help you quit smoking. For the National Helpline, click here!