The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) has introduced a new enhanced stop smoking service to support pregnant women, birthing people, and their families.
The service has been developed in partnership with the Hertfordshire and West Essex Local Maternity and Neonatal System and has also been introduced at other NHS hospitals across the region.
Giuseppe Labriola, director of midwifery and gynaecology at PAHT, said: “We are pleased to offer this new service to help improve the health outcomes for women, birthing people and their unborn babies.
“Quitting smoking during your pregnancy will increase your chances to have a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby, whilst reducing the risk of other associated illnesses in the future.
“We know that it can be difficult to break a smoking habit, but it is never too late to quit. The sooner you stop smoking, the better, for both yourself and your unborn baby.”
Natasha McCormack, healthy lifestyle midwife at PAHT, said: “Protecting your baby by quitting smoking is one of the best things that you can do to give your child a healthy start in life. Each cigarette you smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals, which can harm your unborn baby.
“Our maternity team can advise you about our new service and offer support. You will receive support that will take place on the telephone or in person, alongside the introduction of nicotine replacement therapy, including a personal monoxide reader, distraction aids such as patches or chewing gum and e-cigarettes (vapes).
“To refer yourself to the service, please contact your midwife or self-refer by emailing [email protected] or call 01279 973016.”