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What are the side effects of vaping on newborns?

The Hidden Dangers of Vaping for Newborns
As vaping becomes increasingly popular, concerns about its effects on health, particularly for vulnerable populations like newborns, are rising. While many adults may view e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to traditional smoking, the implications for infants, especially those exposed to secondhand vapor, are alarming.
Secondhand Vapor: A Silent Threat
One of the most pressing issues is the impact of secondhand vapor on newborns. Unlike traditional cigarette smoke, which is well-documented in its harmful effects, the long-term consequences of exposure to e-cigarette vapor are still being studied. However, research indicates that secondhand vapor can contain harmful substances, including nicotine, heavy metals, and ultrafine particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs. This exposure can lead to respiratory issues and may exacerbate conditions like asthma in young children.
Nicotine Exposure: Risks During Pregnancy and Beyond
The dangers of vaping extend beyond secondhand exposure. Pregnant women who vape can significantly increase the risk of nicotine exposure to their unborn children. Nicotine is known to affect fetal development, potentially leading to low birth weight, preterm birth, and developmental issues. Furthermore, the use of e-cigarettes during breastfeeding can also pose risks, as nicotine can be transmitted through breast milk, affecting the infant’s health.
Potential Long-Term Effects
While the immediate effects of vaping on newborns are concerning, the long-term implications remain largely unknown. Experts warn that the inhalation of vaporized substances could lead to chronic respiratory problems and other health issues as the child grows. The lack of comprehensive studies on the long-term effects of vaping means that the full scope of its impact on developing infants is still a matter of speculation.
Conclusion: A Call for Caution
As the vaping trend continues to evolve, it is crucial for parents and caregivers to be aware of the potential risks associated with e-cigarettes, particularly around newborns. The evidence suggests that vaping is not a harmless activity, especially in the presence of infants. With the health of the youngest members of society at stake, a cautious approach is warranted, emphasizing the need for further research and public awareness about the dangers of vaping.

What can vaping around a baby cause?

The vapor from e-cigarettes has chemicals in it that can be harmful to kids. There’s another serious problem with e-smoking devices: Kids can get poisoned if they drink the liquid in nicotine delivery devices or refills. Kids can even get sick if the liquid gets on their skin.

Does vaping affect having a baby?

Women who vape are likely to experience reduced fertility function. This can result in delayed egg production and fertilization. The toxic chemicals in vape liquids can be just as harmful as those found in cigarettes.

Can vaping while breastfeeding affect the baby?

Nicotine and other chemicals from e-cigarettes pass rapidly into breast milk and can interfere with your milk supply. When babies get doses of nicotine from breast milk and from passive smoking, they are more likely to get ear and lung infections, vomiting, diarrhoea and increased irritability.

Can vaping affect a newborn?

The effect of in utero and postnatal exposure to e-cigarette emissions on the health of neonates and infants remains unknown. However, infants can absorb nicotine through multiple exposure routes, including inhalation, skin absorption, oral ingestion, and breast milk.

How long does a secondhand vape stay in the air?

Smoke can hang in the air for a long time. In fact, the NHS estimates that smoke can stay in the air for 2-3 hours. In contrast, research has found that vapour droplets dissipate in seconds.

Is vaping inside bad for the house?

The short answer as to whether vaping will impact indoor air quality is yes. If you vape or allow other people to vape in your home or business, over time it could pose a risk to your air ducts, which does impact your air quality.

What are the side effects of second hand vape exposure?

Non-e-cigarette users who were exposed to secondhand aerosol had higher odds of having moderate to severe emotional and behavioral concerns such as depression, anxiety or social withdrawal, compared to non-e-cigarette users who were not exposed, according to a 2022 study.

How long does vape stay in your breast milk?

Can Nicotine Get into Breast Milk and How Long Does It Stay There? Nicotine can be present in breast milk for a few hours after smoking or vaping.

What if a baby hits a vape?

Call your local poison center (1-800-222-1222) right away if you think a child has been exposed to e-cigarettes and liquid nicotine. Signs of nicotine poisoning include: The child feels sick or is throwing up.

What does nicotine do to a fetus?

reduced oxygen supply and nutrients due to carbon monoxide and nicotine in tobacco smoke. slower growth and development. increased risk of birth defects such as cleft lip and cleft palate. the baby’s movements are weaker in the womb for at least an hour after smoking each cigarette.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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