Is It Safe To Vape While You’re Pregnant?

Can vaping hurt an unborn baby? Is vaping safer than smoking real cigarettes? Does vape even have nicotine in it?

Because so many young people vape, there’s a lot of confusion around its safety. It’s good that you’re asking questions and doing research to figure out what’s safe and healthy for you and your baby during pregnancy.

First, if you’re not sure whether vaping is dangerous or safe, unhealthy or not a big deal – you’re not alone. According to a big study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it seems that a lot of women assume vaping isn’t a big deal and continue vaping during pregnancy. Some women stop smoking regular cigarettes during pregnancy and start vaping because they think e-cigarettes are safe and will help them quit smoking. So these women are trying to be healthier and take care of themselves and their babies. Unfortunately, the idea that vaping is a healthier alternative to cigarettes is a misconception.

So let’s look at some common questions about vaping and sort out fact from fiction. This way, you can make informed decisions about what’s best for you and your baby.

What are e-cigarettes? Electronic cigarettes can come in a lot of different forms. But no matter the specifics, the general idea is the same: there is a liquid that contains nicotine, flavorings, and some other chemicals, and there is a battery-powered part that heats that liquid into a vapor that the user breathes in.

Do vape pods have nicotine? Yes. JUUL pods and e-cigarettes don’t have tobacco, but they do have nicotine.

Is nicotine safe for pregnancy? According to the CDC, nicotine is a danger during pregnancy. Nicotine can damage a baby’s developing brain and lungs. Not only is nicotine not safe for a developing baby, but it’s also not safe for the woman either. Nicotine is known to be highly addictive. It increases blood pressure and heart rate and narrows the arteries, putting users at a greater risk for heart attacks. Nicotine can lower immune response, making you more likely to get sick or making it more difficult for you to fight sickness. It can cause gastrointestinal problems and is believed to put users at higher risk for cancer and make cancers more likely to be fatal.

So no, nicotine isn’t safe for people who are pregnant – or for people who aren’t pregnant.

What other chemicals are in vape liquid? Vape juices contain a variety of different chemicals.

Some of those include:

Formaldehyde – can cause irregular heartbeats and loss of red blood cells
Acetaldehyde – has been associated with the risk of cancer
Acetone – it’s what you use to take off nail polish or gel nails – associated with headache, low blood pressure, coma
Butanol – a solvent – butanol poisoning can cause vomiting and unconsciousness
Propylene glycol – it’s in antifreeze, paint solvent, fog machines
Acrolein – a weed killer which causes irreversible lung damage
Benzene – a compound found in car exhaust
Diacetyl – the chemical that causes what’s known as “popcorn lung”

Can vaping help you stop smoking? There’s really no evidence that vaping helps people stop smoking. Consuming nicotine continues the nicotine addiction and continues the health risks associated with nicotine. There are other ways to help you stop smoking that have proven effective — individual, group, or telephone counseling and some FDA-approved medications. If you smoke cigarettes and want to stop, talk to your healthcare provider about healthy ways to stop smoking.

If you quit smoking or vaping cold turkey, will your baby have withdrawals? No. Medical professionals do not see nicotine withdrawals in babies as they do with drugs like heroin. There is also no indication that a mother’s withdrawals from nicotine hurt the baby in any way. Stopping cold turkey is healthier for the baby than the continued use of nicotine.

Does second-hand vape affect a person the same way second-hand smoke does? Yes. Breathing in the vapors from e-cigarettes exposes the mother and baby to nicotine and all the chemicals in the juice.

What problems can nicotine/vaping cause during pregnancy? Because vape liquids contain nicotine, any problems associated with nicotine use during pregnancy are also associated with vaping during pregnancy. If you vape, you’re more likely for any of these things to happen:

Ectopic pregnancy – when the fertilized egg grows in the wrong place, not in the uterus

Miscarriage – though miscarriage can happen for many reasons and often isn’t the related to any choices the mother makes, smoking/vaping during pregnancy can increase the risk of a miscarriage

Premature delivery – smoking/nicotine use makes it more likely for a baby to be born prematurely, which increases the chance of a baby’s stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)

Low birth weight – nicotine use during pregnancy has been associated with lower birth weights, which could result in complications for the baby

Birth defects – related to improper lung and brain development resulting from the exposure to nicotine and other chemicals

Vaping is not safe or healthy at any time, but it especially isn’t safe during pregnancy. E-cigarettes or vape pens are not a healthy tool to stop smoking cigarettes. Any nicotine use during pregnancy is not good for a mother or a baby.

If you smoke or vape and you want to stop, call your healthcare provider and ask for resources to help you quit. If you don’t have a healthcare provider yet, call us and we’ll connect you to the resources you need. The idea of quitting a habit like smoking or vaping can be overwhelming and intimidating, but you don’t have to do this alone. We’re here to support you.

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My Partner is Pressuring Me to Have an Abortion, But I’m Not Sure

February 10, 2026

An unexpected pregnancy can already feel like a lot to carry. However, when your partner is strongly pushing you toward abortion, and you’re not sure what you want, it can feel even heavier. You may feel torn between your own emotions and his expectations, trying to keep the peace while feeling anxious or confused. If you’re in this situation, take a deep breath. At Collage, we understand how emotionally complicated this can be. You deserve a safe place to talk through what you’re feeling and be treated with respect. You don’t have to rush into a decision. Schedule a free appointment to learn how we can help you navigate this situation. It’s Your Decision Sometimes a partner’s reaction is rooted in panic. He may be thinking about finances, school, your relationship, or how unprepared he feels. In his mind, abortion may seem like the fastest solution. When someone repeatedly insists on one outcome, refuses to listen, or makes you feel guilty for even considering other options, it can start to feel like your voice doesn’t matter. And in a moment this vulnerable, your voice matters more than ever. Giving Yourself Space If conversations feel tense or emotionally draining, it’s okay to take a step back. You have the right to say something like, “I need time to think. I’m not ready to decide right now.” Creating a little space can help you reconnect with your own thoughts instead of constantly reacting to his. Sometimes the best thing you can do is pause, breathe, and remind yourself that you don’t have to figure everything out in one day. You Deserve Respect It’s also important to pay attention to warning signs. If your partner threatens to leave, withdraw support, manipulate you emotionally, or isolate you from others unless you choose abortion, that is not love. That is control. You deserve a relationship where your safety and well-being are protected, not threatened. If you ever feel unsafe, reach out for immediate support. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233) offers 24/7 confidential resources to help you get the assistance you need. You Deserve a Safe Place to Talk It Through At Collage, we’re here to support you. You don’t have to walk into our center with a decision already made. You can come in simply because you need someone to listen, help you process, and remind you that you are not alone. This is your pregnancy and future. If your partner is pressuring you and you’re feeling unsure, please know that help is available. We offer a calm, caring environment where you can talk openly, ask questions, and explore your options without feeling judged or persuaded to make a specific decision. You are not alone in this. Schedule an appointment with Collage today. We’re here to walk with you, one step at a time. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services .

Do I Have to Tell My Partner I Want an Abortion?

January 23, 2026

Facing an unplanned pregnancy can bring up difficult questions, especially when it comes to your relationship. You may be wondering whether you are required to tell your partner you’re considering an abortion, or whether it’s okay to keep that information private. Fear of conflict, concern about pressure, or a desire to protect your emotional well-being can all play a role. These feelings are common, and it’s okay to take time to think through what feels safest and healthiest for you. Collage offers a confidential and non-judgmental space where you can discuss these concerns without pressure. Before making any decisions, we provide cost-free pregnancy services , including ultrasounds, to help you understand important details about your pregnancy. Our goal is to give you accurate medical information and the space you need to move forward with clarity. You’re welcome to schedule a private, confidential appointment to learn more when you feel ready. Understanding Your Autonomy In many states, adults are not legally required to tell a partner if they’re considering or planning an abortion. Medical decisions about your body are generally protected by privacy laws, meaning the decision is legally yours. Some exceptions exist, such as parental involvement laws for minors, but partner notification is typically not required for adults. Even when the law is clear, the emotional side of this decision can feel complicated. You may feel torn between maintaining privacy and wanting honesty in your relationship. There is no single “right” approach, only what best supports your well-being and circumstances. When Safety Is a Concern In some relationships, sharing your thoughts with a partner may lead to understanding or emotional support. In others, it may not feel safe. If you’re worried about pressure, manipulation, anger, or physical harm, prioritizing your safety is essential. You’re never obligated to share information that could put you at risk. If you feel unsafe or unsure, confidential help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-SAFE). Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Why Medical Information Matters Whether or not you involve your partner, having accurate medical information is an important step. An ultrasound can help confirm gestational age, pregnancy location, and whether the pregnancy is viable. These details matter for your health and can help you feel more grounded as you consider your next steps. You Are Not Alone At Collage, we offer a confidential, respectful environment where your voice and concerns are taken seriously. Our team provides pregnancy confirmation, emotional support, and space to think through your situation without pressure or judgment. You deserve time, clarity, and peace of mind as you decide what is right for your life. Connect with Collage to discuss your questions in a supportive and confidential setting. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services.

How to Handle Holiday Gatherings When You Haven’t Shared Your Pregnancy News Yet

December 17, 2025

Holiday gatherings often bring familiar traditions, questions, and expectations. But when you’re carrying the news of an unexpected pregnancy that you haven’t shared, the season may feel different this year. You might be participating in celebrations while quietly navigating thoughts and emotions that others cannot see. If you want clarity about your pregnancy or a private space to consider your next steps, Collage offers free services, including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and confidential consultations, to support your needs. Schedule your appointment today. Prepare Yourself, Not the Perfect Conversation You may not be ready to share your news, and that’s okay. What can help is preparing yourself: deciding on the topics you’re comfortable discussing, the questions you want to avoid, and the boundaries you want to set. This proactivity allows you to answer without feeling like you need to tell all and not overshare. Create Space Throughout the Gathering Instead of thinking about the whole event at once, break it into smaller, manageable moments. Emotional regulation becomes easier when you give yourself space to reset. Try: Stepping outside for a few breaths of fresh air Finding a quiet room for a brief pause Taking a short walk after a meal Giving yourself permission to excuse yourself from overwhelming conversations These small steps can help protect your peace. Remember that if at any point during the gathering you’re ready to go home, go ahead. Take care of yourself by calling it a day when necessary. Meet Your Basic Needs Early pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue can be uncomfortable during gatherings. Come prepared to meet your own needs by bringing pregnancy nausea candy, snacks to settle your stomach, and a water bottle. Store these items in your purse, knowing they’re ready when you need them. You Don’t Have to Navigate This Season Alone If you want clarity before facing holiday conversations, Collage can help you understand your pregnancy and answer questions in a calm, confidential setting, which can make these boundaries easier to hold. Contact us whenever you’re ready to schedule a free appointment. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services .