Smoking during pregnancy remains one of the biggest preventable risks to both maternal and infant health. In Wales, around 1 in 8 women are still smoking at the time of giving birth (Maternity and Birth Statistics 2023), which equates to over 3,000 babies exposed to harmful chemicals before they’ve even taken their first breath.

For many people, pregnancy brings new motivation to make healthy changes but that doesn’t mean quitting is easy. Habits, stress, and life circumstances can make it difficult to stop. The good news is, support is available, and even small steps can make a big difference.

Here are 8 important ways quitting smoking during pregnancy helps give every baby a healthier start:

1. More oxygen for healthy growth

Cigarette smoke contains carbon monoxide, which replaces oxygen in the bloodstream. Reduced oxygen makes it harder for the baby to grow properly, especially in the brain and lungs. Stopping smoking helps oxygen levels return to normal, supporting safe development in the womb.

2. Lower risk of premature labour

Smoking affects blood flow and increases the risk of labour starting too early. Babies born before 37 weeks may face breathing difficulties, feeding problems, and longer stays in hospital. Quitting supports full-term pregnancy and reduces these risks.

3. Healthier birth weight

Babies exposed to smoke in the womb are more likely to be born underweight, which can lead to complications such as low blood sugar, trouble feeding, and difficulty maintaining body temperature. Stopping smoking improves the chance of a healthy birth weight.

4. Reduced risk of stillbirth

Tobacco smoke contains thousands of chemicals that can damage the placenta and slow the baby’s growth. These changes can lead to stillbirth. Quitting smoking during pregnancy significantly lowers this risk.

5. Lower risk of Sudden Infant Death (SIDS)

Research shows that babies exposed to smoking during and after pregnancy are at higher risk of SIDS (also known as cot death). Stopping smoking before or during pregnancy helps reduce this risk and creates a safer sleep environment after birth.

6. Better lung development

Smoking in pregnancy can affect how a baby’s lungs and airways develop, leading to long-term breathing problems and a higher risk of asthma. Quitting helps protect lung function from the very beginning.

7. Healthier placenta

The placenta delivers oxygen and nutrients to the baby throughout pregnancy. Smoking can cause the placenta to develop abnormally or even detach too early, which is dangerous for both the baby and the mother. Quitting supports a healthier, safer pregnancy.

8. Improved health and energy for mum

Stopping smoking has clear benefits for the pregnant person too—improved circulation, better breathing, more energy, and fewer pregnancy complications. A healthier parent leads to a stronger, more supported pregnancy.

Support Is Available

Quitting isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being supported. Help Me Quit Wales offers free, friendly, non-judgemental support to anyone who wants to stop smoking, including tailored help for pregnant women and families.

📞 Call 0800 085 2219
💬 Or text HMQ to 80818
🌐 Visit helpmequit.wales

Small changes can lead to lifelong benefits. Stopping smoking at any stage in pregnancy helps give every baby a healthier start and supports stronger futures, for families, communities, and generations to come.