Lost for words!

I'm not normally one to be lost for words, but lately it’s been happening. As a fitness professional and mom I know how important it is to stay healthy, not just for you but for the sake of your child. Your health is as important or even more important during pregnancy. And I know bad habits are hard to kick, but think of this new life your carrying that has no say as to what goes into his body. With that being said, I find it hard, inhumane and even selfish how some mom-to-be's can't kick a simple bad habit such as smoking! Walking to my pharmacy and back home (which is a 3 minute walk) I witness at least two expecting moms lighting up a cigarette and going about their day. This is becoming more and more common for moms to be, because I see it way too often. If my words mean nothing, then please consider the risks.......

Women who smoke during pregnancy are more likely to have:

* An ectopic pregnancy
* Vaginal bleeding
* Placental abruption (placenta peels away, partially or almost completely, from the uterine wall before delivery)
* Placenta previa (a low-lying placenta that covers part or all of the opening of the uterus)
* A stillbirth

Babies born to women who smoke during pregnancy are more likely to be born:

* With birth defects such as cleft lip or palate
* Prematurely
* At low birth weight
* Underweight for the number of weeks of pregnancy

Info via March of dimes

I urge you if you are a mother or knows a mother that smokes, please think of this precious gift from god. Some women who are in the best health but are not able to conceive children would give anything to carry your baby if they could. And as always be healthy and I'll see you in the gym.

Alicia Nura