Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

What is the primary consequence of smoking during pregnancy?

1. Overweight babies.

2. A lower rate of stillbirths.

3. Lower birth weights.

4. Birth defects.

The correct answer is: Lower birth weights.

Smoking during pregnancy has a significant impact on fetal development, primarily leading to lower birth weights. When a pregnant individual smokes, the nicotine and other harmful substances in cigarettes can restrict blood flow and oxygen supply to the fetus. This reduced oxygen exposure can interfere with normal growth and development, often resulting in babies being born with lower weights than those whose mothers did not smoke. Lower birth weights are associated with increased risks for a variety of health issues, including complications during delivery and long-term developmental problems. This consequence is well-documented in research and highlights the critical importance of avoiding smoking during pregnancy to ensure better health outcomes for the baby. While other consequences of smoking during pregnancy, such as birth defects or potential increases in stillbirth rates, may also occur, the direct correlation between smoking and lower birth weights is a more primary and widespread issue recognized in obstetric care and pediatric health.