Smokefree Pregnancy Service

Maternity Unit
Level 4
Torbay Hospital
Lowes Bridge
Torquay TQ2 7AA

Gemma: 07867 183530
Katie: 07867 183537

Stopping smoking is the best thing you can do for your baby’s health.

Why smoking is harmful

When you smoke, you breathe in a gas called carbon monoxide. This gas:

  • reduces the oxygen in your blood
  • means your baby gets less oxygen
  • can stop your baby from growing well
  • Babies of people who smoke are more likely to be small or weak at birth, and may need extra care after they are born.

    Risks during pregnancy

    Smoking can harm the placenta (the organ that gives your baby oxygen and food). This can lead to serious problems, such as:

    • miscarriage
    • early birth
    • stillbirth

    It can also cause the placenta to come away from the womb too early. This is called placental abruption, which is a medical emergency.

    Getting help to stop

    Stopping smoking can be hard, but our team is here to support you. We offer free guidance alongside products to help manage your cravings, including:

    • nicotine patches
    • gum
    • inhalators
    • mouth sprays
    • vapes

    Depending on your local scheme, you may also be eligible for a financial reward for quitting.

    When you stop

    If you stop smoking by 15 weeks of pregnancy, your baby is just as likely to be born healthy as a baby of a non-smoker. However, stopping at any point during pregnancy gives your baby immediate health benefits.

    Get support

    Contact our specialist team today to start your smoke-free pregnancy journey.

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