Smokefree Pregnancy Service
Maternity Unit
Level 4
Torbay Hospital
Lowes Bridge
Torquay TQ2 7AA
Gemma: 07867 183530
Katie: 07867 183537
Quitting smoking is the most important thing you can do to for the health of your baby.
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas released when you light your cigarette. Carbon monoxide replaces oxygen in your blood, lowering your baby’s oxygen supply and preventing them from growing properly. If you continue to smoke in your pregnancy your baby is likely to be born weak and small. They will have an increased chance of needing to be admitted to intensive care after birth.
Carbon monoxide also damages the placenta, the organ that gives oxygen and nutrients to your baby. This can lead to the placenta not working well or stopping working all together. This can lead to miscarriage, premature birth or still birth. There is an increased chance of your placenta coming away from the wall of your uterus. This is called a placental abruption. This is a medical emergency and is life-threatening to both you and your baby.
Stopping smoking in pregnancy is important, and we are here to help you. We support you to feel able to make this important choice for you and your baby. We can also replace the addictive nicotine, which causes cravings, with safer, cleaner choices. This can include nicotine patches, gum, inhalators, mouth sprays and vapes. All free of charge. You may also be eligible for a financial incentive.
Quitting by 15 weeks of pregnancy, you are no more likely to have a premature or small baby than a non-smoker. Although quitting at any time in pregnancy is good for your baby.
Get in touch with our specialist maternity support workers to start your smokefree pregnancy journey.