One of the healthiest things you can do for yourself and your baby is to stop smoking. Smoking has been linked to a decrease in fertility so it is important to try and quit before you try to conceive. Smoking during pregnancy is linked to a number of risks to both mother and baby, such as:
- Increased risk of miscarriage
- Premature delivery
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Placental abruption
- Placental previa
Smoking (and exposure to second-hand smoke) also increases the chances your baby will be stillborn, will suffer low birth weight or will die of SIDS. Quitting is the best way to reduce your risk and help ensure a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby. While it may be difficult to stop smoking, there are a number of resources that can help.
Smoke Free Resources
- The Canadian Cancer Society offers online support groups, a confidential smokers' helpline (1-877-513-5333) and a text messaging support program.
- The MotHERS Program resource section provides information regarding local support groups and quitting resources.
- smokefreewomen is an online resource for moms and moms-to-be who want to quit and stay smoke free.