Is It Safe to Vape? Analyzing Online Forums Discussing E-Cigarette Use during Pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Reproductive Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use is rising while traditional smoking declines.
• E-cigarettes may satisfy smoking habits with fewer toxicants than cigarettes.
• Little is known about public perceptions of e-cigarette safety during pregnancy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze lay perceptions of e-cigarette safety during pregnancy.
• To understand the discursive strategies used in online discussions about vaping and pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• Thematic discourse analysis of 13 online forum threads.
• Focused on debates regarding the safety of e-cigarette use in pregnancy.

Main Results:

• Three main arguments emerged: quitting nicotine "cold turkey" is unsafe, vaping is the lesser of two evils, and vaping is not worth the risk.
• These arguments centered on nicotine cessation risks, harm reduction, and potential vaping dangers.
• Fetal-specific risks were mentioned alongside general safety concerns.

Conclusions:

• Online discussions reveal varied perspectives on e-cigarette safety in pregnancy.
• Arguments include nicotine cessation concerns, harm reduction, and avoidance of vaping risks.
• There is a need for education and support for pregnant women regarding harm reduction options.