Vaping During Pregnancy: Risks and Recommendations
Recent news has highlighted a concerning outbreak of lung injuries and related deaths linked to e-cigarettes and vaping products. Health experts have found tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in most samples from affected individuals, while Vitamin E acetate was present in all tested samples. Although this is a significant breakthrough, experts caution against drawing definitive conclusions, as other ingredients may also contribute to these health issues.
At MotherToBaby, we aim to address emerging topics like this for the women and healthcare providers we serve. Therefore, it’s crucial to ask, ‘What do we know about vaping and pregnancy?’ This article will focus on nicotine vaping’s impact during pregnancy.
Understanding Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)
Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) encompass a wide range of products, including vaporizers, vape pens, hookah pens, tank systems, mods, and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). Initially developed as alternatives for tobacco consumption, these devices now also serve to vape substances like cannabis. ENDS work by heating a liquid to produce an aerosol that users inhale into their lungs, creating a mist or vape. The liquid can contain nicotine, THC, cannabidiol (CBD) oils, propylene glycol, and glycerol.
Popularity and Risks of ENDS
Introduced to the U.S. market in 2007, ENDS gained popularity as a perceived safer alternative to smoking, potentially aiding smokers in quitting or reducing cigarette consumption. However, traditional cigarettes contain nicotine, various harmful agents, and carbon monoxide, which pose significant health risks during pregnancy. Smoking is linked to increased risks of miscarriage, cleft lip or palate, premature birth, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), infertility, ectopic pregnancies, and placental complications. These risks extend beyond pregnancy, affecting the child’s long-term health, including asthma, obesity, and behavioral issues.
The Challenge of Quitting Smoking During Pregnancy
Pregnancy motivates many women to quit smoking, but finding effective cessation methods can be challenging. Many nicotine replacement therapies lack comprehensive studies on their effectiveness, causing hesitancy. Additionally, medications like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and varenicline (Chantix) have limited pregnancy-related data and carry warnings of potential psychiatric effects, complicating the decision-making process for pregnant women seeking alternatives like ENDS.
Health Implications of ENDS During Pregnancy
The impact of inhaling substances in ENDS during pregnancy remains uncertain. Studies indicate that e-cigarette users can absorb significant nicotine levels comparable to traditional cigarettes, and nicotine can cross the placenta. Animal studies suggest that chemicals in e-cigarettes may affect offspring’s immune, lung, heart, and neurodevelopment systems. Yet, human data is lacking. While ENDS may reduce exposure to some cigarette toxins, they still pose risks due to nicotine and other chemicals.
Furthermore, some ENDS labeled as nicotine-free have been found to contain nicotine. A review of non-pregnant ENDS users found no strong evidence of their efficacy in smoking cessation.
Recommendations for Pregnant Women
Despite recent lung injury reports, health experts advise pregnant women to avoid ENDS entirely. Pregnant women struggling to quit smoking should consult healthcare providers to develop a suitable cessation plan and utilize resources like the National Quitline Network (1-800-QUIT NOW). Quitting smoking is vital for both mother and child’s health. Clear the air for your baby’s sake—they’ll thank you.
References:
Whittington J. et al. 2018. The Use of Electronic Cigarettes in Pregnancy: A Review of the Literature. Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey. 73(9): 544-549.
Committee on Underserved Women et al. 2017. Smoking Cessation During Pregnancy. 130(4): e200-e204.
Kuehn B. 2019. Vaping and Pregnancy. JAMA. 321(14).
Steenhuysen J. “UPDATE 1-U.S. CDC reports ‘breakthrough’ in vaping lung injury probe as cases top 2,000.” Reuters: Yahoo finance. 8 November 2019. Web 11 November 2019.
