Support to stop smoking in pregnancy

Published on: 25/03/2015

New research has highlighted some of the effects that smoking in pregnancy has on the unborn baby, and experts at Durham and Lancaster Universities say that the evidence against it is stronger than ever. A second research project, published in the journal of Human Reproduction has also highlighted concerns that prenatal smoking can negatively impact on the future reproductive health of unborn daughters.  Although further research is still needed, MAMA Academy are urging mums to be to access as much support as possible to stop smoking.

If you need support to stop smoking, please do seek help and guidance from your midwife and GP. Services in the UK exist to help, without judgement, so that you are able to have a healthy pregnancy and give your baby the best possible start in life. We’ve listed details of the support available below:

Nicotine Replacement Therapy is available on the NHS. You can be referred to this service by a NHS stop smoking advisor- please see your GP for the referral.

Find Stop Smoking services in England here: http://www.nhs.uk/smokefree

Find Stop Smoking services in Scotland here: http://www.canstopsmoking.com/local-help

Find Stop Smoking services in Wales here: http://www.stopsmokingwales.com

Find Stop Smoking services in Northern Ireland here: http://www.want2stop.info/stop-smoking-services

You can also access Stop Smoking one to one or group counselling sessions too. Most Nicotine Replacement treatments are suitable for use in pregnancy, but your doctor, midwife or Stop Smoking counsellor can advise the best course for you.

The NHS Stop Smoking helpline is open from 9am to 8pm Monday to Friday on 0800 123 1044. Trained advisers can  talk to you about the best ways to stop smoking and direct you to your nearest Stop Smoking services.

For more information on the importance of stopping smoking in pregnancy, please visit the NHS Smoke Free site here: http://www.nhs.uk/smokefree/why-quit/smoking-in-pregnancy

Be empowered. Know the risks, know the effects of smoking on your unborn baby and take positive steps to ensure your baby is protected, and given the best start in life. Support is also available for new mums too.

To read the research carried out by Durham and Leicester Universities, please click here: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/apa.13001/abstract

The Human Reproduction abstract can be found here