Advert targets smoking mums-to-be

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A new campaign is being launched by the NHS in Scotland to help pregnant women stop smoking.

Almost a quarter of mothers-to-be smoke while pregnant, despite heightened health risks.

A new TV advert is to be screened, highlighting the help which is available for pregnant women who want to stop smoking.

A free DVD is available, as well as the services of midwives trained in smoking cessation counselling.

In 2004, on average 23.8% of pregnant women carried on smoking.

In deprived areas the proportion is even higher, despite health professionals saying the risks of smoking during pregnancy are clear.

The good news is that there is help and support available for mums who want to quit smoking Carol Butlermidwife

Smoking mothers are more likely to lose their baby, and premature births are more common, leading to a heightened need for postnatal care.

NHS Scotland says the aim of the campaign is to help women to quit smoking, rather than judging them or making them feel bad about themselves.

Carol Butler, a smoking cessation midwife, said women who smoke during pregnancy are much more likely to have a baby who might be sick and in need of special care.

'Informed choice'

She added: "They're much more likely to have hospital admissions themselves and there is also a risk of miscarriage.

"But the good news is that there is help and support available for mums who want to quit smoking, and nobody's going to judge them or make them feel bad about themselves.

"All the smoking cessation midwives across Scotland are here to provide information so that women can make an informed choice."

Ann Kerr, who is programme manager for tobacco at NHS Health Scotland, said that the aim of the advert and DVD was to highlight that there was help for pregnant women who smoke.

She added that anyone can contact Smokeline free on 0800 848484 or visit othe website at www.canstopsmoking.com for information on services across Scotland.