Quitting smoking can be very difficult, partly because of the presence of nicotine in tobacco. Nicotine stimulates the brain and over time can cause the brain to become addicted to the chemical, which can make it difficult to quit. On the other hand, quitting smoking before you are pregnant not only has many health benefits for you, but it also will benefit your future child by reducing the risk of low birth-weight and other complications.
Step 1
Set a time line. According to the American Cancer Society, women who stop smoking before pregnancy or during the first three to four months of pregnancy have their risk of having a low birth-weight baby drop to the same risk that non-smoking women have. This means that even if you find out that you are pregnant while you are a smoker, there is still time to quit in order to benefit your baby. On the other hand, quitting before you become pregnant is ideal for your future baby's health.
Step 2
Join a support group. Your local state health department, American Cancer Society office or your workplace may offer a smoking cessation support group. These groups can offer emotional support as well as tips and strategies to stop smoking. If you can't find a group, call the American Cancer Society (1-800-227-2345) to learn about the resources available in your area.
Step 3
Try nicotine replacement therapy. Nicotine replacement therapy comes in the form of lozenges, gum, sprays or patches (placed on the skin). These products help replace the nicotine that you lose when you quit smoking, which helps reduce your urge to smoke.
Step 4
Try other smoking cessation drugs. Bupropion (Zyban) and varenicline (Chantix) are two prescription medications that can be used to reduce your urge to smoke. You should talk with your doctor, however, if you are currently pregnant and planning to take these medications so that you can understand the benefits and risks.
