"Smoking also increases the risk of preterm delivery (before 37 weeks of gestation) (*). Premature and low-birthweight babies face an increased risk  of serious health problems during the newborn period, chronic lifelong disabilities (such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation and learning problems), and even death." (March of Dimes)

* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). What Do We Know About Tobacco Use and Pregnancy. June 11, 2007.

 "Smoking during pregnancy can cause low-birth weight, preterm delivery, and infant death. Smoking during pregnancy is estimated to account for 20 to 30 percent of low-birth weight babies, up to 14 percent of preterm deliveries, and about 10 percent of all infant deaths according to American Lung Association" (American Pregnancy Association).

To learn more about premature birth complications click here.