Is Vaping Zero Nicotine While Pregnant Safe?

Vaping or smoking during pregnancy should be avoided under any circumstances as it can pose serious health risks to the fetus. But what about nicotine-free e-liquids? Is vaping zero nicotine while pregnant safe? Let's find out!

What are the effects of vaping during pregnancy?

According to a 2023 study published in the Toxics scientific journal, vaping during pregnancy is on the rise, potentially because it is considered to be a safer alternative. Based on a CDC report, 7% of pregnant women use e-cigarettes, and 1.4% vape until the last trimester. While vaping is indeed seen as a less harmful alternative to traditional tobacco products, it is not risk-free.

Based on the report of the Australian Government Department of Health, vaping while pregnant can increase the risk of the following health conditions:

"Risks to you and your baby include: miscarriage, stillbirth, ectopic pregnancy, problems with the placenta, pre-eclampsia, dying from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), being born too early, being born underweight, having birth defects such as a cleft lip or cleft palate, being harder to settle and having feeding problems, having middle ear infections or permanent hearing impairment, and long term damage to the lungs, brain and blood."

Secondhand smoke and vapor can also be dangerous for the health of the fetus. It can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, kidney disease, and even obesity as an adult.

It is clear that pregnant women should avoid vaping. But what about nicotine-free products? Is vaping zero nicotine while pregnant safe?

Vaping zero nicotine while pregnant may be dangerous too

As we covered in our article on Elfbar ingredients, most e-juices contain the following ingredients:

• propylene glycol
• vegetable glycerine
• flavoring
• nicotine

The nicotine content of the e-liquid can vary from 0% up to 5%. The more nicotine a certain e-juice has, the stronger it is. Many brands, including Elfbar, offer so-called "nic-free" vapes, which are great for those who enjoy vaping but want to cut back on nicotine consumption.

Some pregnant women have considered using these weaker e-juices to reduce potential health risks. But is vaping zero nicotine while pregnant safe?

While there is limited research on the topic, the answer is most likely no. As the authors of the previously mentioned study explain, there are other toxins in e-juices that can be dangerous for the fetus:

"(...) e-cigarette aerosols may contain several newer, potentially toxic compounds, including some known developmental toxicants that may adversely impact both the mother and the fetus."

Vaping zero nicotine while pregnant is not safe and should be avoided for the safety of the fetus. You should also avoid inhaling secondhand smoke or vapor, as it can be dangerous as well.

FAQ

Should I stop vaping during pregnancy?

Yes, vaping should be temporarily avoided during pregnancy and the breastfeeding period.

Is vaping safe during the breastfeeding period?

No, vaping or smoking during the breastfeeding period can be dangerous for the baby. According to the Australian Breastfeeding Association's guide:

"E-cigarettes are not harmless as they can still contain chemicals and nicotine which can pass into breastmilk and affect your baby's health."

When can I start vaping again?

Most health professionals recommend waiting to vape until the breastfeeding period is over.

If you are ready to vape once again, check out our wide selection of products!