In the second stage of the European longitudinal study of pregnancy and childhood (ELSPAC) detailed anamnestic data on the mother were assessed, and objective data on the health status during pregnancy, delivery and on the neonate were assembled. Numerous partial results of the ELSPAC study confirmed that smoking during pregnancy has an adverse effect on the course of pregnancy and foetal development. During pregnancy in smokers proteinuria as well as the diagnosis of suspect foetal retardation were significantly more frequ- ent. During delivery placenta previa and placental abnormalities were recorded more often. The mean duration of gestational age was similar in smokers and non-smokers. The mean birth weight of newborns of women who smoked during pregnancy was on average by 107 g lower as compared with non-smokers. Significant differences were also found in the mean length and head circumference, always to the disadvantage of smokers. Smokers reported significantly more frequently greater fear and restlessness at the onset of labour pains and after return from the maternity home. They get frequently more excited without any reason and are more tense.

        Key words: smoking, pregnancy, growth retardation