[Consequences of tobacco use on mothers and children].

The effects of smoking on female reproductive life are clear, with a longer time-lapse necessary for conception, alterations in hormonal and placental functions and an increased risk of extra-uterine pregnancy, prematurity and low birth-weight. The effects of passive smoking among children, irrespective of source, are linked to an increased risk of sudden infants death syndrome, as well as a higher frequency of otitis and respiratory ailments. Some authors have also found an increased risk of cancer in children and a negative impact on physical and psychological development.