... known risks before trying to conceive, so that they can create the best conditions for the embryo to grow and develop into a healthy baby." (Meggitt, C. 2001. p.11). Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen a baby receives through the placenta and even if a mother stops smoking when she realises she is pregnant the oxygen amount may already have been decreased causing a risk to the unborn baby. Smoking can lead to learning difficulties in the baby, and there is a higher chance the baby will develop asthma or respiratory problems later on which could result in them missing school for hospital care. Smoking during birth also affects birth weight due to the release of nicotine and other substances in the body and could lead to learning difficulties as a result of a slower developmental rate. Diet is important before birth as "prospective mothers are being encouraged to increase ...

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