This No Smoking Day 2026, we are encouraging the estimated 260,000 people in Wales who smoke to consider …
Smoking and Pregnancy
Smoking during pregnancy remains one of the leading preventable risks to maternal and child health. While the percentage of women smoking during pregnancy has decreased, the latest data highlights that 12% of women giving birth in Wales in 2023 were recorded as smokers, affecting around 3,000 babies annually. Supporting mums-to-be to quit is vital for ensuring healthier pregnancies and brighter futures for the next generation.
What's The Issue?
Every time a pregnant woman smokes, she inhales harmful chemicals like carbon monoxide, reducing oxygen supply to the baby. This increases the risk of complications, such as:
Premature Births: Babies born too early face developmental challenges.
Low Birth Weight: A major factor in infant health complications.
Stillbirth and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): Smoking is a leading preventable cause.
In 2023, approximately 3,200 babies were born to mothers recorded as smokers in Wales. Younger mothers, especially those under 20, are disproportionately affected, with 28% reporting smoking at their initial assessment.
Why It Matters?
Impact on Babies
Smoking during pregnancy can have lifelong effects on babies. It increases the risk of developmental issues, such as learning difficulties, hyperactivity, and chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes. The harmful impact begins in the womb and continues throughout life.
Impact on Mothers
Pregnant women who smoke are at higher risk of complications like placenta previa, placental abruption, and ectopic pregnancies. These conditions not only threaten the mother’s health but can also result in emergency interventions.
Breaking the Cycle of Inequality
Women from the most deprived areas of Wales are far more likely to smoke during pregnancy, perpetuating cycles of poor health and inequality. Targeted support can help address this disparity and create better health outcomes for all.
Opportunity to Quit
Pregnancy offers a powerful motivation to quit smoking, with many women making their first serious attempt during this time. Providing the right support, such as nicotine replacement therapy and non-judgmental advice, can make a significant difference.
Get Support
We’re here to support mums-to-be every step of the way. Visit our Support for Mums Section.
Your journey to a healthier pregnancy starts here.
Key Stats
- 12% of pregnant women in Wales were smokers at the time of giving birth in 2021.
- Around 3,500 babies each year are born to mothers who smoked during pregnancy.
- Women in the most deprived areas are 3 times more likely to smoke while pregnant compared to those in the least deprived areas.
- Second-hand smoke increases the risk of birth defects and respiratory problems in babies.
Quit Smoking with Help Me Quit
Access free support, including one-to-one sessions and nicotine replacement therapies, to help you quit smoking safely during pregnancy.Smoking and Pregnancy: Maternity and Birth Statistics 2023
Dive deeper into the latest statistics on smoking during pregnancy in Wales, including data on health outcomes and smoking prevalence.How Smoking Affects Your Baby
Read NHS advice on the dangers of smoking while pregnant and tips for quitting successfully.
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