What are common infant effects associated with maternal tobacco use?

Maternal tobacco use during pregnancy is associated with several adverse effects on infant health, notably intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), premature birth, and being small for gestational age (SGA).

IUGR refers to a condition where a fetus does not grow to its full potential while in the womb, often as a result of compromised blood flow and nutrient delivery due to the effects of smoking. This can lead to various complications and is often a direct outcome of reduced placental function associated with maternal smoking.

Premature birth is another significant risk, as tobacco exposure has been shown to increase the likelihood of preterm labor. Infants born prematurely face a variety of health challenges, including underdeveloped organs and systems, which can lead to increased morbidity.

Being small for gestational age means that the infant’s weight is below the 10th percentile for their gestational age, which can also be a consequence of maternal smoking. This condition can lead to long-term health issues and developmental challenges for the child.

The other options, while they may include some possible associations with various maternal health issues, do not specifically capture the most common and direct effects of maternal tobacco use during pregnancy that are backed by considerable research and clinical observations.