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Cigarette Smoke Exposure and Pregnancy Metabolic Profile (24-hour urine collection)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures certain chemicals in your urine over 24 hours to assess how much cigarette smoke you’ve been exposed to while pregnant.

Quick summary

["Understanding smoke exposure helps track potential health risks during pregnancy."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
92275-7
Short code
Cigarettes smoked per D preg
Synonyms
Cigarettes smoked per D preg
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke during pregnancy. It helps monitor your exposure levels and supports overall prenatal care decisions.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect all your urine over a full 24-hour period in a special container. Drink plenty of fluids to ensure full collection, but avoid smoking or using tobacco products during this time.

How the Test Works

The urine sample is analyzed for specific chemicals (like nicotine metabolites) to estimate how much smoke you’ve inhaled. The results help track exposure trends and support discussions about reducing risks.

What the Results Mean

Results may indicate the level of smoke exposure but do not diagnose health conditions directly. Your provider will interpret results alongside other prenatal health data to guide next steps.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: This test helps identify exposure patterns to support smoking cessation counseling, monitor fetal development risks, and tailor prenatal care plans. High exposure may prompt additional interventions.

Frequently asked questions

What does a ‘high’ or ‘low’ exposure result mean?
A ‘high’ exposure result suggests significant smoke exposure, which may increase risks for both you and your baby. A ‘low’ result indicates minimal exposure, but smoking remains harmful regardless of levels.
How often will I need this test?
Your provider will determine frequency based on your smoking status and pregnancy progress. It may be done once or multiple times during pregnancy if needed.
Can I stop smoking before or after giving my urine sample?
Avoid smoking or using tobacco products for the full 24-hour collection period. If you quit, results may not reflect current exposure accurately.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy