Stopping smoking in pregnancy in Leicester

It is important to have all the information you need to make the best decisions for your health, your family’s health, and the health of your new baby.

Why quitting matters

• Carbon monoxide (a gas from smoking) passes into the baby’s blood. This lowers the amount of oxygen that gets to your baby. This can stop your baby from growing properly. It can cause you to give birth too early
• Some babies have sadly died from the effects of smoking in pregnancy
• If you stop smoking, you are more likely to have a full-term healthy baby
• You are 4 times more likely to stop smoking with your local NHS stop smoking service
• Second-hand smoke exposure (from a partner smoking nearby) can also affect both your health and your baby’s health

You and your family can stop smoking today with free, expert support available in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.

How Leicester Hospital’s can help

The Maternity CURE Team gives specialist support to pregnant women, birthing people, and their partners to quit smoking for good. Their experienced pregnancy advisors can meet you:

• At home
• In the hospital
• At a Children’s Centre
• At your favourite coffee shop
• Or any location that suits you

Free Support is available

• Personalised one-to-one support throughout pregnancy
• Free nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum) and e-cigarettes (vapes)
• Shopping vouchers incentive scheme to support your quit journey
• On-going behavioural support to help you stay smoke-free

How to get help

1. Ask your midwife at your next appointment about how to stop smoking during pregnancy.
2. Contact the Maternity CURE Team today to start your smoke-free journey: MaternityCUREUHL@UHL-tr.nhs.uk
3. For more information, visit Quit Ready or Live Well Leicester

Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your baby’s health—and the Maternity CURE team are there to help every step of the way.