Final answer:
Smoking during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of spontaneous abortions (miscarriages) and can lead to reduced blood oxygen levels for the fetus, causing additional complications such as low birth weight, premature births, and a higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the risks associated with smoking during pregnancy, studies have shown that smokers are more likely to experience spontaneous abortions than non-smokers. This is one of the many detrimental effects smoking can have on pregnancy outcomes. Nicotine and other harmful substances in cigarettes can interfere with the normal growth and development of the fetus, leading to a higher incidence of miscarriages, as well as risks like low-birth-weight infants and premature births.
Another significant concern for pregnant women who smoke is that their developing babies might suffer from reduced blood oxygen levels, which is crucial for fetal development. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the dangers smoking poses to pregnancy, including an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other complications.
Moreover, the habit can lead to long-term health issues in the child, such as respiratory problems and a higher likelihood of infant mortality. The Surgeon General's Warning clearly states that smoking may complicate pregnancy by contributing to these and other adverse outcomes, emphasizing the critical need for pregnant women to avoid tobacco use.