Smoking in pregnancy

Wellbeing benefits

Quitting smoking during pregnancy improves you and your baby's wellbeing. This includes physical health, energy, mood and your pregnancy experience.

• Better physical health: reduced risks of respiratory issues, fewer headaches and improved circulation.
• Increased energy: without nicotine, the body functions better, leading to more energy and less tiredness.
• Improved mood: reduced anxiety and stress levels as nicotine withdrawal symptoms fade.
• Enhanced sense of taste and smell: these sensory improvements increase enjoyment of food and the environment.
• Fewer complications: this means a smoother, more comfortable pregnancy experience.

Passive smoking

Passive smoking is also known as second-hand smoke. It occurs when you breathe in smoke from other people’s cigarettes. It is dangerous for both you and your baby because it exposes you to harmful chemicals. It can lead to complications like low birth weight and premature birth. It can also increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

If people in your household smoke, they can lower the risk of passive smoking by:

• quitting or smoking outside
• keeping the home and car smoke-free
• avoiding smoking near you to protect you and your baby's health

Breastfeeding and smoking

If you smoke, don’t stop breastfeeding. It remains a vital source of protection and nutrition for your baby, even if you're struggling to quit. To further protect your baby, make your home smokefree and ask others not to smoke near your child. Avoid smoking before breastfeeding to reduce nicotine in your milk.

If you or your partner smoke, avoid co-sleeping with your baby. It can increase the risk of SIDS, especially with alcohol or sedative medications. Read more about keeping your sleeping baby safe.