Media release from the New Zealand College of Midwives

So many reasons to stop says the New Zealand College of Midwives.

On World Smoke Free Day, the College is reiterating what those reasons are and strongly suggesting to women who are planning to have a baby, or who are currently pregnant or have recently had a baby, that they should seriously consider giving up cigarettes

"There is not one good reason or even slightly good reason to keep smoking," says Midwifery Advisor Norma Campbell.

"While many women know the general health risks associated with smoking, many are unaware of the risks associated with their reproductive health," she says.

In New Zealand, 25% of women smoke during pregnancy (Ford et al., 1993; Wellington Women's Hospital. Capital Coast Health, 1998) and the health risks Norma Campbell refers to include:

 going into labour early (premature labour) is more common and this risk is increased in the latter half of the pregnancy.

 an increased chance of complications related to the pregnancy - such as ruptured membranes, a low lying placenta (placenta praevia - can lead to bleeding), placental abruption (placenta detaching - can lead to serious problems with unborn child and even stillbirth), and ectopic pregnancy (fertilised egg developing in fallopian tubes or other area not designed for developing foetus).

 more likely to give birth to a low birth weight premature baby. Low birth weight is a major cause of infant mortality and morbidity. Low birth weight is also linked with vulnerability to illness in later life.

 restricted brain growth in the unborn child.

 reduced duration of breastfeeding. Breastfeeding provides the best start in life for a baby, giving them a strong immune system together with being "cheap" and convenient for mums.

 smoking has been associated with an increase risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

 and there is an increased risk of spontaneous abortion of a normal foetus

"Why would you keep smoking when there is so much benefit for you and your baby if you stop. We would urge pregnant women who smoke to seek advice and support from their midwife about stopping smoking, for the benefit of their own long-term health and the health of their child," says Norma Campbell.