<span style="color: #222222;">A study has found that small unseen particles in air pollution inhaled by pregnant women may damage the cardiovascular system of the unborn baby and delay its growth and development.&nbsp;</span><br />” <span style="color: #222222;">&nbsp; &nbsp;</span><br />” <span style="color: #222222;">Researchers from Rutgers University in the US found that early first trimester and late third trimester were critical windows during which pollutants most affect the mother's and foetus' cardiovascular systems.</span><br />” <br />” <span style="color: #222222;">These findings suggest that pregnant women, women of child-bearing years who may be pregnant, and those undergoing fertility treatments should avoid areas known for high air pollution or stay inside on high-smog days to reduce their exposure. The study also suggests that pregnant women should also consider monitoring their indoor air quality.&nbsp;</span><br />” <br />” <span style="color: #222222;">According to the study published in the journal Cardiovascular Toxicology, what a mother inhales affects her circulatory system, which is constantly adapting to supply adequate blood flow to the foetus as it grows.&nbsp;</span><br />” <br />” <span style="color: #222222;">Exposure to these pollutants can constrict blood vessels, restricting blood flow to the uterus and depriving the foetus of oxygen and nutrients, which can result in delayed growth and development. It can also lead to common pregnancy complications, such as intrauterine growth restriction.</span><br />