What is the effect of smoking during pregnancy on fetal development?

Smoking during pregnancy has well-documented negative effects on fetal development, making the option that identifies its potential to lead to premature birth and low birth weight accurate. The harmful substances found in cigarettes, such as nicotine and carbon monoxide, can restrict blood flow to the placenta and effectively limit the oxygen and nutrients that reach the developing fetus. This can result in a variety of complications, including growth restrictions, which often manifest as low birth weight.

Additionally, smoking is a significant risk factor for preterm birth, meaning that babies are born before the full term of gestation, which is less than 37 weeks. Such prematurity can have lasting effects on the child's health and development, potentially leading to long-term complications.

The other options do not align with the established research regarding smoking during pregnancy; therefore, they do not accurately reflect the potential consequences of maternal smoking on fetal development.