Pediatricians/OBGYNs

Obstetricians, gynecologists, pediatricians, and others who specialize in women's health are in a special and influential position to help women quit using tobacco. Additionally, they can help prevent future tobacco product use among clients and their children.

These professionals are in the unique position to make a difference because when provided with information about the health risks of tobacco use, many women are willing to change their lifestyles for the sake of their child's health, both pre- and postnatal.

Unfortunately, the majority of obstetricians and gynecologists may only ask each client about their tobacco use and suggest quitting. One study reported that only about one-quarter of obstetricians and gynecologists take the opportunity to help their clients devise and follow-up with them about a quit plan.¹ Additionally, pediatricians are less likely to talk to the parents of their young clients about quitting smoking than are primary care physicians or obstetricians/gynecologists.²

The following information is geared specifically for obstetricians, gynecologists, pediatricians, and other professionals who work with pregnant women and mothers. We hope that this information will help you address the specific needs and concerns of your client.

The Facts About Smoking and Pregnancy

• It has been estimated that as many as one million of the four million women who give birth each year smoke while they are pregnant.³
• Smoking and the use of other tobacco products is dangerous to the pregnant woman, her fetus, and others in the household that are breathing in secondhand smoke.
• Smoking during pregnancy can lead to increased risk of a wide range of developmental health and behavioral problems for the baby. Some of these risks are death, premature birth, SIDS, ADHD, brain damage, autism, birth defects, asthma, nicotine withdrawal, and many others.⁴
• The risks continue if the mother chooses to breastfeed and uses tobacco products during this time. Some of these risks include nicotine addiction, SIDS, brain cell damage, circulatory problems, and other risks.⁴
• Smoking can interfere with a woman's fertility and can lead to early menopause.⁵

The Facts About Secondhand Smoke and Children

• Approximately one-half of children in the U.S. live in homes with at least one adult smoker.⁶
• Secondhand smoke is particularly problematic for children because their lungs are still developing.⁷
• Exposure can lead to respiratory problems (e.g., cough, breathlessness, asthma), ear problems (buildup of fluid in the ears), and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).^{7, 8}
• Even brief exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful to children.^{7, 8}

How to help your clients quit smoking now

Talking to your clients for only about 15 minutes can motivate your clients to quit smoking. Use the "Five A's" to guide your discussion and increase your client's motivation to quit.¹

Helpful Links

Helpful Documents from the Office of the Surgeon General

• You Can Quit Smoking: Support and Advice From Your Prenatal Care Provider (English Version)
  • PDF file
  • TEXT only
• You Can Quit Smoking: Support and Advice From Your Prenatal Care Provider (Spanish Version)
  • PDF file
  • TEXT only

Websites that may be helpful to you

• The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology
• The National Partnership to Help Pregnant Smokers Quit

Websites that may be helpful to your clients

• Great Start: This site provides information on quitting smoking and pregnancy that is directed at clients.
• The Weight-control Information Network: This site provides information on weight loss control while quitting smoking.

Fax to Assist

See Fax to Assist for more information on our Fax Referral Program.