Maternal waterpipe tobacco smoke exposure during lactation induces hormonal and biochemical changes in rat dams and offspring

Waterpipe smoking is common among pregnant and breastfeeding women. Herein, the effects of waterpipe tobacco smoke (WTS) exposure during lactation on milk composition, hormonal levels and biochemical profile in dams and pups were investigated. Lactating Wistar rats were randomly assigned to receive either WTS (2 hours per day) or fresh air (control group). Milk was collected on day 21 and analysed for protein, lactose and total fat. Blood, from dams and pups, was analysed for insulin, glucose, lipid profile, leptin, prolactin and corticosterone. WTS exposure during lactation increased the blood level of HDL and corticosterone in dams (P < .05). However, the level of milk lactose and blood glucose was reduced in dams after the exposure to WTS during lactation (P < .05). WTS during lactation significantly increased levels of triglycerides, LDL and leptin (P < .05), and a trend of increase in blood level of nicotine and prolactin in pups. Levels of other parameters were not affected by WTS exposure in dams and pups. In conclusion, WTS exposure during lactation altered the milk composition and altered lipid profile, glucose homeostasis and hormonal levels in dams and pups. It is necessary to adopt strategies to enhance tobacco cessation during breastfeeding.