Case studies of three pregnant smokers and their use of nicotine replacement therapy

although health providers intuitively regard pregnancy as an appropriate time for women to stop smoking, the stressors during pregnancy seem to militate against cessation. This study does not indicate that use of NRT will provide an easier solution. It may be more fruitful to institute a concerted lifestyle approach with both the woman and her partner (or significant household members), and continue this support and education postnatally if cessation has not been achieved. Health professionals should also support better-targeted public health campaigns and tobacco-control initiatives generally, because, undoubtedly, the social environment is a major determinant of initiation and continuation of smoking.