Pregnancy and Tobacco Use
Congratulations on your pregnancy!
Expecting a baby is an exciting time and may inspire you to think about quitting tobacco. You might also have other reasons to quit smoking or vaping now. Quitting can be hard at any stage of life, but we’re here to help with support that’s free of judgment. It’s never too late to quit.
The Maine QuitLink team is ready to support your decision and help you focus on what’s motivating you to quit.
Get Support to Quit Smoking or Vaping
You’re not alone. The Maine QuitLink offers free, confidential support by phone or online. You’ll work with a certified quit coach to create a plan that’s personal to you and reach your quit goals.
If you’re thinking about quitting, learn more about how the Maine QuitLink can help you take the first step to a healthier future for you and your baby.
We also encourage you to talk to your doctor about any questions you have about quitting or cutting back on tobacco.
It’s Never too Late to Quit
Quitting tobacco during pregnancy and after birth gives your baby the best chance for a healthy start in life. Nicotine products , including vapes, can affect your baby’s growth and health. Quitting will help create a healthier future for you and your baby. When you stop smoking while pregnant, your baby gets more oxygen, even after one day.
Here’s what you gain by quitting:
- Lower risk of complications in pregnancy and during birth
- Less likely to give birth too early
- Easier and faster recovery after birth
- Lower risk of postpartum depression
- More oxygen leading to stronger growth and development
- Lower risk of being born early and health problems that often go with being born early
- Better lung development
- Less likely to be exposed to thirdhand smoke residue when being held
- Lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
- Support health and development for years to come
After the Baby is Born:
The postpartum period can be hard, beautiful, and stressful. Many new parents may feel tempted to turn to old habits during this time when stress increases. Most relapses happen in the first 6 months after birth for people who quit or cut back during pregnancy. The Maine QuitLink is here to support you and help you stay tobacco-free, even during tough times.
If you make the choice to breastfeed your baby and use tobacco products, you are exposing your baby to the harmful substances through your breastmilk. Talk to your doctor about the risks associated with tobacco use while breastfeeding.
There is no safe level of secondhand or thirdhand smoke. Opening windows or using fans won’t remove the harmful chemicals that stay on surfaces. These chemicals can be inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed through the skin. Babies exposed to secondhand smoke also increases their risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Keep your family and home healthier by removing secondhand and thirdhand smoke from your home.
Learn more about the effects of secondhand and thirdhand smoke.
Need additional support with quitting?
Try enrolling in SmokefreeMOM for free text message support.
Quit Your Way
We have free tools to help you quit, no matter where you are in your journey. When you’re ready to quit smoking, vaping, or using smokeless tobacco products, pick the support that works best for you.
Enroll Online
Take control of your quit journey with easy-to-use online tools. Customize a quit plan, stay motivated, and track your progress using the online dashboard. Start today and build a plan made just for you.
- Free 4-week starter kit of patch, gum, or lozenges
- Text message support
- Chat online with a coach
Call to Quit
Get free, 1-on-1 phone coaching with a trained Quit Coach to make your own quit plan. People who join are twice as likely to quit, and using free nicotine gum, patches, or lozenges can triple your chances.
- 12 weeks of free gum, patches, or lozenges
- Talk with a Quit Coach
- Unlimited support