What health risk has been linked to cigarette smoking in pregnant women?

Cigarette smoking during pregnancy is a significant health risk that has been consistently linked to negative outcomes for the fetus. The correct choice highlights the association between maternal smoking and an increased incidence of low birth weight and prematurity.

When a pregnant woman smokes, harmful substances such as nicotine and carbon monoxide enter her bloodstream and affect the developing fetus. These toxins can lead to placental insufficiency, which restricts the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, ultimately contributing to lower birth weights and a higher likelihood of premature delivery. Low birth weight is defined as a weight of less than 2500 grams (about 5.5 pounds) at birth, and it is associated with various health complications for the newborn, as they might be more vulnerable to infections, developmental delays, and other health issues.

Other listed options do not accurately reflect the effects of smoking during pregnancy. For instance, smoking is linked to an increased risk of gestational hypertension, rather than a decrease, as hypertension can be exacerbated by the stress and vascular changes induced by smoking. Furthermore, smoking negatively impacts fetal movement—usually it decreases overall fetal activity due to reduced oxygen levels—rather than increasing it. Lastly, smoking is associated with poorer neonatal outcomes, which would typically involve