problems during pregnancy

the bottom line

Women who smoke have an increased risk of several complications of pregnancy that can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby, including premature rupture of the membranes (a condition that can lead to infection in the mother and to premature birth), placenta previa, and abruptio placentae.

definition

Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta is in the wrong place; it can cause bleeding in the mother and sometimes results in loss of the baby.

Abruptio placentae is a condition in which the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus too early, and that can result in the death of the baby.