Once again it is a study on mice that has sown doubt in the scientific community. Is vaping dangerous for pregnant women? Indeed, a study has observed an alteration of lung function, with signs of fibrosis and hypersecretion of mucus in mice exposed in utero to electronic cigarette vapors, with or without nicotine.
E-CIGARETTE NOT RECOMMENDED DURING PREGNANCY?
Several animal studies on the effects of in utero exposure to electronic cigarette vapors have suggested an impact on cardiovascular functions, the occurrence of pulmonary inflammation, with alteration of the pulmonary structure of the fetus. Study released by team of Ohio researchers focuses on lung function and structure
In this study, mice were exposed to electronic cigarette vapors during the three weeks of gestation, four hours a day and five days a week. The consequences on the lungs of the offspring of these mice were examined at the age of 5 months.
The researchers were able to observe a deterioration in lung function in the offspring of exposed mice, whether or not the e-liquid contained nicotine. They thus observed signs of fibrosis in the lungs, airways and blood vessels, which could alter the elasticity of the lungs. Mucus secretion was also increased, which contributes to blocking the airways. Finally, an increase in weight was noted in female mice once adults, while their birth weight was normal.
The authors attribute these consequences to exposure to particles containing acetone, acetaldehyde and in particular formaldehyde emitted during the degradation of propylene glycol during vaporization. However, they remain cautious about these observations and invite us to extend this study, the numbers of mice being reduced.
As a precaution, the authors advise avoiding any consumption or exposure to electronic cigarette vapors during pregnancy. Totally contradictory information has however been available since 2021 on electronic cigarette use during pregnancy.
