This pilot study investigates the effect of prenatal nicotine exposure on full fetal facial movement by comparing maternal cigarette exposure, e-cigarette exposure and no exposure. It builds upon the Froggatt et al. (2021) study investigating the effect on fetal mouth movement. 4D ultrasounds were conducted at both 32 and 36 weeks gestational age, and coded for analysis within this study. Upper and lower facial movements, defined by the Fetal Observable Movement System, were coded and then compiled with facial mouth movements previously coded for by Dr. Suzanne Froggatt-Gray in the Froggatt et al. (2021) study. 

No significant difference was identified between exposure groups. However, an apparent increase in fetal facial movement was identified for both nicotine exposure groups compared to non-exposed fetuses, aligning with findings from postnatal studies. Further exploration is therefore needed. High variability was observed between fetuses, notably among those within the two nicotine exposure groups.  It is suggested that this pilot study is extended by analysing a larger number of participants, potentially including all 87 eligible mother-infant pairs included within the Froggatt et al. (2021) study to sufficiently assess the effects of prenatal nicotine exposure of fetal facial movement. A comprehensive understanding is needed to best guide healthcare policy regarding the use of nicotine-administering products during pregnancy.  

Froggatt, S., Reissland, N., Covey, J., & Kumarendran, K. (2021). Foetal mouth movements: Effects of nicotine. Acta Paediatrica, 110(11). https://doi.org/10.1111/apa.16042