Critical Discussion on Smoking During Pregnancy as a Form of Fetal Abuse: An Approach to Advocate for Fetal Right to Life.
10.4094/chnr.2016.22.4.317
- Author:
Youngmee KIM
1
;
Kap Chul CHO
Author Information
1. Red Cross College of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea. kcho@cau.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Smoking;
Pregnancy;
Fetal abuse;
Advocacy
- MeSH:
Child;
Child Abuse;
Child Development;
Constitution and Bylaws;
Crime;
Criminal Law;
Female;
Fetal Development;
Health Policy;
Humans;
Infant, Low Birth Weight;
Infant, Newborn;
Jurisprudence;
Mothers;
Pregnancy Outcome;
Pregnancy*;
Pregnant Women;
Premature Birth;
Risk Factors;
Smoke*;
Smoking Cessation;
Smoking*;
Value of Life*
- From:Child Health Nursing Research
2016;22(4):317-325
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
PURPOSE: Smoking during pregnancy contributes to the risk of negative health outcomes in mothers and babies. The purposes of this study were to review the harmful effects of maternal smoking during pregnancy on fetal and child development, to discuss if maternal smoking should be criminalized as a form of child abuse, and to explore advocating for fetal rights. METHODS: A variety of published literature and legal documents including the Korean constitution, criminal laws, and children's welfare laws were reviewed and critically analyzed. RESULTS: Women who smoke during pregnancy are more likely to experience abortion related to placental dysfunction. Their unborn risk premature birth, fetal growth restriction, low birth weight, neurobehavioral disturbances, and/or other complications and newborn babies are also at risk for complications. The advocates for fetal rights can assert that maternal smoking should be regarded as a crime. CONCLUSION: Findings show that maternal smoking during pregnancy is a major risk factor for many adverse pregnancy outcomes. Effective strategies and health policies for smoking cessation during pregnancy are required to protect pregnant women and their babies.
