A parent's guide on how to stop smoking

As parents we all want the best start in life for our children, and that includes good health. But quite often without intention or awareness we can damage our children's health when we smoke around them. The problems can occur before the baby is even born if the mother smokes while she is pregnant.

Smoking in pregnancy

Smoking during pregnancy is an important cause of ill health for both mother and foetus. Besides increasing the mother's risk of potentially serious complications, smoking during pregnancy is the largest preventable cause of foetal and infant ill health and death.1 Smoking in pregnancy has been linked to problems such as premature birth, low birth weight, miscarriage and cot death. Stopping smoking while pregnant will make complications less likely.

Second-hand smoke

Babies and children who are exposed to a smoky atmosphere are at an increased risk of respiratory symptoms such as breathlessness, phlegm, coughing and wheezing.2 Moreover, parental smoking is an important cause of lower respiratory tract illness in infants and these children are more likely to be admitted to hospital in their first year of life. They are also more likely to develop ear conditions.

What help is available

If you are pregnant and would like to stop smoking there is a specialist 'stop smoking in pregnancy' service. The service, in Sunderland, provides non-judgemental, empathic support with home visits if preferred. Nicotine replacement is also made available in pregnancy but must be given under medical supervision. All family members can access the service; this benefits both the pregnant woman and any other children in the family.

When a woman is referred she will be contacted by phone and a convenient appointment is given. The advisor makes a home visit and at the first appointment the client's smoking habits are discussed as well as previous attempts to quit. Lots of useful hints and tips will be offered and nicotine replacement will be discussed and supplied if required. The client is contacted on their quit date and will be followed up every week for support. The advisor will also visit shortly after the birth to offer further support.

To find your local service call the NHS helpline on 0800 169 9 169 or visit the website: www.givingupsmoking.co.uk.

Tips for quitting smoking

* Set a quit date - one that's right for you

* Get rid of all your cigarettes, ash trays and lighters

* Drink lots of cold water

* Take up an activity such as knitting, crosswords, painting

* Take deep breaths - it will relax you

* Go for a walk - it will take your mind off cigarettes and will improve your health

* Change your routine

* Make a list of why you want to stop smoking

* Attend a smoking cessation class

How to protect children

We understand that not every parent will want to stop smoking. However, we are sure that you would like to do all that you can to protect your child.

You can do this by keeping their playing, sleeping and eating areas separate from smoky areas. Always smoke outside, well away from children.

Let family and friends know that you are keeping your home smoke free.

Avoid smoking in the car, second-hand smoke is more concentrated inside a car. Keep all smoking materials out of reach of children. Never leave lit cigarettes or lighters unattended.

Remember that stopping smoking is the greatest gift that you can give yourself and your family!

By Janice Ramshaw, specialist pregnancy cessation advisor, Sunderland Sure Start

References

1 and 2: British Medical Association, Board of Science and Education and Tobacco Control Resource Centre Smoking and reproductive life: the impact of smoking on sexual reproduction and child health February 2004