Smoking in Pregnancy Advice

Smoking prevalence in pregnancy is around 10% in Liverpool and has not reduced at the rate seen in the general population. This is higher than the average rate of 9% in England.

For many women, falling pregnant will be the trigger to help them quit smoking completely. For others it’s not so easy - the reality is  that it can be even more difficult for a pregnant woman to stop smoking as her cravings may be worse - this is where we need your help. Every woman who is pregnant and smoking should be referred to their local stop smoking service. With Smokefree Liverpool:

• They are four times more likely to quit with support
• We can offer up to (and beyond) 12 weeks of Nicotine Replacement Therapy on prescription
• Our team have the specialist experience to help someone who is pregnant to quit smoking.

Smoking and pregnancy can be a challenging however, as advisors we fully understand how difficult it can for someone to stop smoking. Our advisors are incredibly empathetic and have a non-judgmental attitude.

Carbon Monoxide Testing

Carbon Monoxide is a very important and motivational tool when encouraging a pregnant woman to stop smoking. Every pregnant client should be tested for Carbon Monoxide throughout their pregnancy even if they state they smoke. If a Carbon Monoxide reading of 4ppm or above is given, concerns should be raised with the pregnant woman, and a brief intervention should be given:

• Inform of the risks
• Explain how they can be supported
• Refer to smokefree

E-Cigarettes during pregnancy

E-Cigarettes are becoming more and more popular with people who are trying to stop smoking and it has been estimated that vaping is at least 95% less harmful then smoking

E-cigarettes don't burn tobacco and do not produce tar or carbon monoxide, which can cause serious harm to an unborn baby.

NICE Guidance states that:

• although these products are not licensed medicines, they are regulated by the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016
• people using e-cigarettes should stop smoking tobacco completely because any smoking is harmful
• the evidence suggests that e-cigarettes are substantially less harmful to health than smoking but are not risk free
• the evidence in this area is still developing, including evidence on the long-term health impact.

What do we say to pregnant women who are using an e-cigarette?

Apply Risk Vs Benefit: If a woman tells you she is using an e cigarette to help her quit smoking, think about the Risk vs benefits.  Pregnant women should be encouraged to use Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) but if they choose to continue to use an e-cigarette as a tool to stay off smoking tobacco, it is the better option.