How to Quit Smoking While Pregnant

Maybe you’re thinking about quitting because you’re trying to get pregnant, or you have a baby on the way. No matter what stage of pregnancy you are in, it’s never too late to quit smoking. Deciding to quit is the first step to becoming smokefree.

Plan to Quit for Good 

Many women quit smoking or try to do so while they’re pregnant. Some plan to start smoking again after their baby is born. Quitting smoking during and after your pregnancy can help ensure your baby has the best possible start in life. Keep your baby and yourself safe from the harms of cigarettes and make your pregnancy the start of your smokefree life. To help you prepare and boost your chances of success, build a quit plan today.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you’re pregnant, or are trying to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about quitting. You can begin by being open about your challenges, especially if you haven’t been able to quit in the past. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about local support groups, in-person or telephone counseling, and digital health resources such as text message programs, smartphone apps, or online quitting programs. 

Pregnant women are encouraged to try quitting without medications. More research is needed about the medications’ safety and effectiveness for pregnant women. But, if you have not been successful in quitting, ask your doctor if medication is right for you and your baby.  

Talk to your doctor before using any of the following: 

• Over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy medications such as a nicotine patch, nicotine gum, or nicotine lozenge
• Prescription medications (for example, varenicline or bupropion SR) 

Know What to Do When It Gets Tough

Triggers, cravings, and withdrawal are some of the biggest challenges people who smoke face when quitting.  

• Identify what makes you want to smoke and learn ways to avoid these triggers so you can stay smokefree.
• Make a list of things you can do instead of smoking when you’re having a craving. You’ll be ready to handle tough moments more easily.
• Know what withdrawal symptoms are temporary and will lessen over time. Be prepared to manage these uncomfortable feelings by building healthy coping skills, exploring quit methods, or creating an exercise plan.

Try the SmokefreeMOM Text Messaging Program

The SmokefreeMOM text message program provides daily tips, encouragement, and support to help pregnant women quit smoking. If you feel ready to try to quit, the program will guide you to set a quit date and help you prepare and stick with it. If you aren’t quite ready to quit yet, that's ok! The program will send you messages to help you get there. Sign up online or text MOM to 222888 to join now.

Explore Other Quit Smoking Tools

There are many ways to quit smoking – try different options and find what works best for you. Having a plan and getting help can make it easier and boost your chances of quitting for good. Below are free, no-judgment resources to help you quit.

• Make your phone your quit buddy. Download quitSTART, Smokefree.gov’s free smartphone app. Track your cravings by time and location to help you see patterns so you can stay in control. It also has ways to see your progress and fun distractions to keep you from having a slip.
• Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW to speak with a quit smoking counselor. Get information and encouragement or referrals to local programs.
• Log on to LiveHelp, an online chat service, available Monday through Friday 9:00am-9:00pm Eastern Time. A trained specialist will give you support and quit smoking information. LiveHelp also is available in Spanish.
• Join the Smokefree Women Facebook page. Women who have quit, or are trying to quit, offer one another advice and inspiration.

What About E-Cigarettes?

E-cigarettes should not be used during pregnancy. This is because e-cigarettes usually contain nicotine, which can hurt pregnant women and their babies. Nicotine is addictive and can damage a developing baby’s brain and lungs. E-cigarettes may also contain other substances that are harmful to a developing baby, like heavy metals, flavorings, and cancer-causing chemicals.  

Quitting all forms of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, is best for you and your baby. Talk to your health care provider about proven, safe, and effective quit methods.

Learn more about e-cigarettes.

Ask for Support

Tell your friends, family, and loved ones that you’re planning to quit smoking for good – for you and the baby. When pregnant women and new mothers get positive support from their loved ones, they’re more likely to successfully quit.  

• Explain to them how they can help. Maybe you just need someone to listen. Or maybe you want someone to celebrate with you. Ask them to try to be there for you as much as possible.
• Tell them you may have physical symptoms or mood changes because of withdrawal. Ask them to be patient and supportive even if you’re in a bad mood. 
• Have no smoking rules in your house and car and ask others to follow them. Many people say that it’s hard to stay smokefree around people who smoke.  

Tip: It’s OK to take a temporary break from people who don’t support your quit. Remember your reasons for quitting and surround yourself with people who will provide positive support and encouragement.

Learn more about how to start your quit.