How do nicotine patches work. Where should you place a nicotine patch on your body. What are the potential side effects of using nicotine patches. How long should you use nicotine patches when quitting smoking.

Understanding Nicotine Patches and Their Role in Smoking Cessation

Nicotine patches are a widely used tool in the journey to quit smoking. These adhesive patches deliver measured doses of nicotine through the skin, helping smokers manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings as they work towards breaking their addiction. By providing a controlled amount of nicotine, patches can ease the transition from smoking to a nicotine-free lifestyle.

The effectiveness of nicotine patches in smoking cessation has been well-documented. A 2016 study published in the BMJ journal highlighted that it may take 30 or more quit attempts before successfully stopping smoking. This underscores the importance of persistent efforts and the use of aids like nicotine patches in the quitting process.

Proper Application of Nicotine Patches: Locations and Techniques

Correct application of nicotine patches is crucial for their effectiveness. Here are key points to consider:

• Choose a clean, dry, and relatively hairless area of skin between the neck and waist
• Common application sites include the upper arm and chest
• Apply the patch in the morning for optimal effect
• Change the patch daily, rotating application sites to avoid skin irritation

Why is site rotation important? Rotating the patch location helps prevent skin irritation and ensures consistent nicotine absorption. By changing the application site daily, you reduce the risk of developing skin sensitivity or rashes at any one location.

Tips for Successful Patch Application

1. Wash and dry the chosen area thoroughly before applying the patch
2. Remove the protective backing and immediately apply the patch to your skin
3. Press firmly for about 10 seconds to ensure good contact
4. Wash your hands after applying the patch to remove any nicotine residue

Nicotine Patch Dosage and Duration: A Typical Treatment Plan

Nicotine patches are typically used as part of an 8-week smoking cessation program. The dosage is usually tapered down over time to gradually reduce nicotine dependence. A common treatment plan might look like this:

• Weeks 1-4: High-dose patch (15-21 mg of nicotine per day)
• Weeks 5-8: Lower-dose patch (5-14 mg of nicotine per day)

Why is the dosage reduced over time? The gradual reduction in nicotine dosage helps the body adjust to lower levels of nicotine, making it easier to eventually stop using the patches altogether. This tapering approach can help minimize withdrawal symptoms and increase the chances of successful smoking cessation.

Potential Side Effects of Nicotine Patches and How to Manage Them

While nicotine patches are generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects. Common side effects include:

• Skin irritation at the patch site
• Sleep disturbances, including vivid dreams
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Rapid heartbeat (in rare cases)

How can you manage these side effects? For skin irritation, try rotating the patch site daily. If sleep disturbances persist, consider removing the patch before bedtime. For more severe symptoms like rapid heartbeat or persistent dizziness, consult your healthcare provider immediately.

Combining Nicotine Patches with Other Smoking Cessation Methods

While nicotine patches can be effective on their own, combining them with other smoking cessation methods may increase your chances of success. Some complementary approaches include:

• Nicotine gum or lozenges for immediate craving relief
• Behavioral therapy or counseling
• Support groups or quit-smoking programs
• Prescription medications like bupropion or varenicline

Why consider a combination approach? Different methods address various aspects of smoking addiction. While patches provide a steady supply of nicotine to manage withdrawal, other tools can help with the psychological and behavioral aspects of quitting.

Nicotine Patches and Special Populations: Considerations and Precautions

While nicotine patches are generally safe for most adults, certain groups should use them with caution or under close medical supervision:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with heart conditions
• Individuals with skin disorders
• Those taking certain medications that may interact with nicotine

Why is medical supervision important for these groups? Nicotine can have varying effects on different populations. For example, pregnant women need to weigh the risks and benefits carefully, as nicotine can affect fetal development. Those with heart conditions may need to be monitored for potential cardiovascular effects of nicotine therapy.

Maximizing the Effectiveness of Nicotine Patches in Your Quit-Smoking Journey

To get the most out of nicotine patches, consider the following strategies:

1. Set a firm quit date and start using patches on that day
2. Follow the recommended dosage and duration of treatment
3. Use patches in conjunction with a comprehensive quit plan
4. Stay physically active to help manage cravings and stress
5. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
6. Be prepared for setbacks and don’t get discouraged if you slip up

How can you stay motivated during the quitting process? Keep track of your progress, celebrate small victories, and remind yourself of the health benefits you’re gaining. Remember that quitting smoking is a process, and each attempt brings you closer to your goal of becoming smoke-free.

The Role of Mindset in Successful Smoking Cessation

Your mental approach to quitting smoking can significantly impact your success. Some key mindset strategies include:

• Visualizing yourself as a non-smoker
• Reframing challenges as opportunities for growth
• Practicing positive self-talk and affirmations
• Focusing on the immediate and long-term benefits of quitting

Why is mindset important in smoking cessation? A positive, determined attitude can help you overcome obstacles and stay committed to your quit plan, even when faced with cravings or setbacks.

Understanding Nicotine Addiction and the Quitting Process

Nicotine addiction is complex, involving both physical and psychological components. When you quit smoking, your body goes through a series of changes as it adjusts to the absence of nicotine. Common withdrawal symptoms include:

• Irritability and mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating
• Increased appetite
• Restlessness
• Insomnia
• Cravings for cigarettes

How do nicotine patches help with these symptoms? By providing a controlled dose of nicotine, patches can help alleviate many of these withdrawal symptoms, making the quitting process more manageable. This allows you to focus on breaking the behavioral habits associated with smoking while your body gradually adjusts to lower nicotine levels.

The Science Behind Nicotine Addiction

Nicotine affects the brain by binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, triggering the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine. This chemical reaction creates pleasurable sensations and reinforces the smoking behavior. Over time, the brain adapts to regular nicotine exposure, leading to addiction.

Why is understanding the science of addiction important? Knowing how nicotine affects your brain and body can help you better prepare for the challenges of quitting and appreciate the importance of tools like nicotine patches in managing withdrawal symptoms.

Long-Term Benefits of Quitting Smoking with Nicotine Patches

Successfully quitting smoking using nicotine patches can lead to numerous health benefits, both immediate and long-term:

• Improved cardiovascular health
• Reduced risk of lung cancer and other smoking-related cancers
• Better lung function and reduced risk of respiratory diseases
• Improved sense of taste and smell
• Increased energy levels
• Healthier skin and reduced premature aging
• Financial savings from not buying cigarettes

How quickly do these benefits appear? Some benefits, like improved circulation and lowered heart rate, can be noticed within hours of quitting. Others, like reduced cancer risk, develop over months and years of being smoke-free.

Celebrating Milestones in Your Quit Journey

Recognizing and celebrating your progress can be a powerful motivator. Consider setting up a reward system for reaching certain milestones, such as:

• 24 hours smoke-free
• One week without cigarettes
• One month smoke-free
• Three months, six months, and one year of being a non-smoker

Why is celebrating milestones important? Acknowledging your achievements reinforces your commitment to quitting and provides positive reinforcement, helping to maintain your motivation throughout the quitting process.

Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions About Nicotine Patches

Despite their proven effectiveness, some people have concerns or misconceptions about using nicotine patches. Let’s address some common questions:

Are nicotine patches safe?

Nicotine patches are generally safe when used as directed. They have been extensively studied and approved by regulatory agencies like the FDA. However, as with any medical treatment, they may not be suitable for everyone, which is why it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting use.

Can I become addicted to nicotine patches?

While nicotine patches do contain nicotine, the risk of becoming addicted to them is low. The patches deliver nicotine in a controlled, steady manner, unlike the rapid spike and fall associated with smoking. Additionally, the treatment is designed to be temporary and gradually reduced over time.

Will nicotine patches completely eliminate my cravings?

Nicotine patches can significantly reduce cravings, but they may not eliminate them entirely. Smoking addiction has both physical and psychological components. While patches address the physical aspect, you may still need to work on the habitual and emotional aspects of smoking.

Can I use nicotine patches if I’m still smoking occasionally?

It’s not recommended to use nicotine patches while still smoking, as this can lead to nicotine overdose. Patches are designed to be used as part of a complete smoking cessation plan. If you’re having trouble quitting completely, speak with your healthcare provider about alternative strategies or adjusting your quit plan.

Why is it important to address these concerns? Understanding the facts about nicotine patches can help alleviate fears and misconceptions, enabling you to make an informed decision about using them in your quit-smoking journey.

The Future of Smoking Cessation: Emerging Technologies and Treatments

While nicotine patches remain a cornerstone of smoking cessation therapy, researchers continue to explore new approaches to help people quit smoking. Some emerging areas include:

• Digital health interventions and smartphone apps
• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic factors
• Novel nicotine replacement delivery systems
• Combination therapies that target multiple aspects of addiction

How might these advances impact smoking cessation efforts? These new approaches could offer more personalized and effective treatments, potentially increasing success rates for those trying to quit smoking. However, it’s important to note that many of these technologies are still in development or early stages of use.

The Role of Support Systems in Successful Quitting

While tools like nicotine patches are invaluable, the importance of a strong support system cannot be overstated. Support can come from various sources:

• Friends and family
• Support groups (in-person or online)
• Quit-smoking hotlines
• Healthcare providers
• Workplace wellness programs

Why is social support crucial in quitting smoking? Having a support network can provide emotional encouragement, practical advice, and accountability, all of which can significantly increase your chances of successfully quitting smoking.

In conclusion, nicotine patches are a valuable tool in the smoking cessation arsenal. When used correctly and as part of a comprehensive quit plan, they can significantly increase your chances of successfully quitting smoking. Remember, quitting is a journey, and each attempt brings you closer to your goal of a smoke-free life. With persistence, support, and the right tools like nicotine patches, you can overcome nicotine addiction and enjoy the numerous health benefits of being a non-smoker.

A Guide to Using the Nicotine Patch

If you’re trying to kick a smoking habit, the nicotine patch can be a powerful ally — if you understand how it works and know how to use it properly.

By Dennis Thompson JrMedically Reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD

January 29, 2018

Everyday Health Archive

Medically Reviewed

Getty Images

If you haven’t managed to quit smoking yet, don’t lose heart: It can take many people 30 or more quit attempts before they manage to stop successfully, according to a study published in 2016 in the BMJ journal.

Although an estimated 70 percent of smokers want to quit, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, stress, and associated weight gain can all thwart their ability to kick the habit. (Nicotine is a particularly addictive drug that’s an ingredient in cigarettes; withdrawal symptoms include headaches and anxiety. ) The good news is that there are many tools at your disposal to help you quit and stay that way — and when you combine them, they may be even more effective.

One of these tools is the nicotine patch, a type of nicotine replacement therapy that works by releasing a measured dose of nicotine into the skin, helping to wean smokers off their nicotine addiction and lessen the effects of nicotine withdrawal. Here’s what you need to know about trying it for yourself.

Where Can I Find a Nicotine Patch?

Before the Food and Drug Administration approved the over-the-counter sale of nicotine patches in 1996, they were available only by prescription; now you can buy a supply at a wide variety of stores, for about $4 a day.

Most nicotine patches are made for 24-hour use, says Humberto Choi, MD, a pulmonologist at the Cleveland Clinic. But some people may decide to take the patch off before they go to bed, so they wear it only around 16 hours a day.

Leaving the patch on for the full 24 hours can help provide you with a steady dose of nicotine, but you might be more likely to experience a side effect like skin irritation, too. The trade-off is that some people who don’t wear the patch overnight may experience more cigarette cravings in the morning.

The Right Way to Apply a Nicotine Patch

A nicotine patch looks much like an adhesive bandage and comes in a variety of sizes. You’ll put it on in the morning, on a clean, dry, and relatively hairless part of the body between the neck and the waist — for example, on the upper arm or the chest. The patch should be changed daily, and when you apply a new one, be sure to choose a different location to avoid any related skin irritation.

Once you apply a nicotine patch, you’ll wear it continuously throughout the dosage period. Because it takes a few hours for the nicotine in the patch to seep into the bloodstream, says Dr. Choi, you might want to combat any immediate cravings with a piece of nicotine gum or a nicotine lozenge.

Nicotine patches are generally used as part of an eight-week smoking cessation program, which may follow this pattern:

• Weeks 1-4: You’ll wear a nicotine patch that delivers a strong dose of nicotine — for example, 15 to 21 milligrams (mg) per day.
• Weeks 5-8: You’ll switch to a weaker patch, one that may deliver 5 to 14 mg per day.

Side Effects of the Nicotine Patch

Most smokers get real relief from the nicotine patch — but they can also experience some side effects. These may include:

• Skin irritation Some people’s skin may become irritated under the patch. Choosing a new skin site each day usually helps alleviate this problem; if it continues, you can consider switching to another brand of patch.

• Sleep disturbances Some people using the patch report disruptions to their sleep, such as vivid dreams, insomnia, and other disturbances. If your sleep is still affected after three or four days of using a nicotine patch, try taking the patch off after 16 hours to give your skin a rest.

• Racing heartbeat and dizziness If this occurs, stop using the patch immediately and talk to your doctor about switching to a lower-dose patch. According to a research review published in 2012 by the Cochrane Collaboration, nicotine replacement therapy doesn’t increase a smoker’s risk of having heart problems if he or she has a history of heart disease. However, if you do have a history of heart disease, be sure to use a nicotine patch under your doctor’s guidance.

• Pain and nausea This includes headaches, muscle aches, and vomiting.

Choi cautions, though, that some of these symptoms may not be due to nicotine replacement therapy but to nicotine withdrawal itself. So be sure to talk to your doctor about the symptoms you’re experiencing; he or she can help you pinpoint the cause.

Additional reporting by Maria Masters

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Stopping smoking with Patches – how to use them correctly.

When you quit, the lack of nicotine in your body can cause withdrawal symptoms. Find out how nicotine patches can help you quit smoking.

Nicotine patches are available in forms that supply a constant dose of nicotine for either 16 or 24 hours by using a stepdown programme, from high to medium to low strength.

Because it takes a few hours for the nicotine in the patch to seep into the bloodstream, you might want to combat any immediate cravings with a piece of nicotine gum or a nicotine lozenge.

Within the first week of using the patch you’ll notice that your nicotine withdrawal symptoms will start to diminish. As you stick with your quit plan you should find that your cravings will lessen over time.

It takes a few months for breathing to get better and many people feel a little worse the first month. This is primarily because you are starting to clear a lot of gunk from your lungs also the nicotine withdrawal is probably making you a little more sensitive to your body.

Put the patch on clean, dry, hair-free skin on the upper body. Usual places to put the patch are the upper chest (avoiding the heart area, upper arm, shoulder, back, or inner arm. You can put the patch on thighs, too. Where possible, this same area should not be used for approximately 7 days.

You should wear the patch continuously for 16-24 hours depending on the specific directions inside your nicotine patch package. The patch may be worn even while showering or bathing.

Begin using the patch on the morning of your “quit” day, even if you are not able to stop smoking immediately. Leave the patch in its sealed storage pouch until you are ready to put it on.

Some of our customers complain about the application of patches which peel off after a short time. Here are several tips how to keep the patches in place:

• To apply the patch, place the sticky side on your skin and press it firmly with the palm of your hand for 10 seconds.
• Apply the patch to a dry, clean hairless area of your body that incurs minimal perspiration throughout the day.
• If you have trouble getting the patch to stick, try to reinforce with fabric bandage (like Coban or other stretchy bandage material), medical tape or tegaderm film. It’s used by tattooists to protect fresh tattoos while they heal but it’s great for putting over patches and sticks well. You can get it on e-bay. Just cut a square a bit bigger than the patch (it comes on a roll and has lines on the back which makes it easy to cut evenly). It also comes as pre-cut squares, but these are more expensive.
• Make sure there is no residues on skin.
• Heat the patch still in the pack for a minute against a hot kettle or mug – just rubbing in your hands while still in the packet can have a similar effect and it is safer, then hold it still for a few minutes after application.
• If a corner of the patch rises, put an ordinary Elastoplast over it. This sticks the corner of the NRT patch down again.
• Cut thin strips of micropore tape and secure it around the edges, even stays on in shower and the bath.
• Try putting them on lower stomach just above the hip and they stay in position. Also, best to avoid the stomach if pregnant.

If the patch loosens or falls off, replace it with a new one. When changing your patch, remove the patch carefully and dispose of it by folding it in half with the sticky sides touching. Then apply a new patch to a different part of your upper body. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

It’s common to have some trouble sleeping when you first quit smoking. This will get better, but if it is bothering you, talk with your healthcare provider to get help. If you become exhausted from poor sleep, this can make it harder to stay quit.

The 24-hour patch may cause sleep disturbance, such as difficulty sleeping or unusually vivid dreams. Removing the patch a few hours before you go to sleep may stop sleep problems.

Please note you can’t cut nicotine patch into smaller pieces because doing so might affect how this medication gets absorbed into your body. To get the full benefit of nicotine patch, apply one full patch to your body at a time.

Single NRT has been proven to be effective at helping people quit.  Dual therapy has been shown to be more effective than just using one product.

Our Stop Smoking Service can offer you telephone or face-to-face support appointments where you will discuss with an advisor your smoking / medical history, triggers and behaviours, as well as prescribing Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT – your patches are an example of this). Your advisor would then check in with you every couple of weeks for 12 weeks, to provide continued support and ensure that the medication is working correctly – all to give you the best chance of quitting. The advisor will help you to choose what products are best for you and monitor the use and progress of these products throughout.

They will also work with you to create a plan around quitting looking at behaviours and routines formed around smoking.  Through a combination of product and specialist support you are 3 times more likely to quit smoking.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of any further assistance / provide further information on this matter and call us on 0800 013 0553.

In-depth information about NRT products and how to use them can be found here.

Author:

Olena Kovalenko

Public Health Officer

Tobacco Control and Stop Smoking Services

Survive without cigarettes – June 7, 2007

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World No Tobacco Day, celebrated last week, is an excellent opportunity for many to talk in a smoking room about the dangers of a common habit. For those who nevertheless decided to move from words to action, there are now many ways to quit smoking, starting with the good old willpower and ending with systematic treatment by a specialist. In an interview with an NGS.NOVOSTI correspondent, Marina Markatun, Chairman of the Regional Branch of the Russian Psychotherapeutic Association, a psychotherapist at the MARKATUN Medical Center, talks about how to quit smoking on your own, about why some quit smoking easily, while others only with the help of doctors , and why you should not quit smoking “from Monday”.

There is such a paradox: some people make a decision and quit smoking once and for all without outside help, while others are forced to turn to specialists… What does it depend on?

It depends both on willpower and on the degree of dependence. For some people, quitting smoking is not difficult because they do not form the so-called physical dependence on nicotine. Such people are approximately 10-15 percent. For them, a cigarette is just a toy, they do not experience physical attraction, and they do not even need to strain their will to quit.

But most smokers are still physically addicted to nicotine because it is a drug. You can often hear: “I smoke to relax.” In fact, nicotine works in two phases. The first phase is relaxation and calmness. But in the second phase, the same tension arises that the smoker removes with a cigarette. Nicotine, in simple words, “pulls” the next portion.

In addition, about 15-20 percent of smokers are particularly physically dependent. They are really very bad, they experience a real withdrawal syndrome. Doctors sometimes do not recommend such smokers to quit during an exacerbation of chronic diseases. They need the help of specialists, and the support of others, and willpower.

That is, such smokers cannot cope with the habit themselves? Or is it still possible?

Of course it is possible. But here it all depends on willpower and motivation. But most smokers can easily cope without outside help. But they will still experience withdrawal symptoms and may suffer from irritability and insomnia.

If a quitter uses a nicotine patch, is there a risk of giving up cigarettes and getting addicted to the patch instead?

No, there is no such risk. The patch is easier to refuse because it is not connected with the social life of a person. In addition, smoking is also associated with the so-called oral reflex, the memory of that nipple that soothed us in childhood. It’s like a breast in a baby’s mouth – everything is in order, everything is calm. The patch does not have such an effect, in itself it is not interesting. It’s just that withdrawal symptoms are milder with him, it’s easier to go through this period.

It is sometimes said that gradually reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke is a self-deception that will not help you to quit smoking completely…

Everything is very individual, there is no ideal method that would suit everyone. There are people for whom only gradual withdrawal is suitable, and for them this method really works. For some it’s the other way around. Older people suffering from chronic diseases, it is better to quit gradually. Of course, it is better for young healthy people to refuse immediately, without arranging rituals like solemn extinguishing of the last cigarette or promises to start a new life on Monday. I made a decision and that’s it.

Solemn rituals like publicly throwing away a pack or quitting smoking under the chiming clock on New Year’s Eve don’t work? Is that also self-deception?

For some, rituals work, but not for the majority. If the decision is taken seriously, rituals are not needed. It’s more of a way to put off solving a problem, to coddle a little with yourself, to dream about how it will be solemn. And as soon as the period after the ritual comes, people, as a rule, light up again.

When does a strong craving for cigarettes stop?

The first 3-4 days will be the hardest. The critical moment comes in a month. After 12 months, according to WHO, a person is already considered a non-smoker.

There are different ways to quit smoking. How to choose the right one?

There is a Horn test that classifies smokers by type. Treatment depends on the type. The most severe case is physically dependent smokers. They may need medication, hypnosis, and work with a psychotherapist.

Smokers with a strong oral reflex first of all need a psychotherapist who will find out why this reflex is still so important. Although this is rather a task even for a psychoanalyst, and not for a psychotherapist. Methods such as gum, lollipops, seeds will help here, so that there is something in the mouth. There is a folk method – to chew a sprig of bird cherry, because its taste discourages the desire to smoke.

It happens that a person has decided to quit smoking and does not seem to experience any special physical dependence. But for some reason it doesn’t work out: either he lit a cigarette for the company, or he just forgot … Here, too, work with a psychotherapist is needed, because the problem may lie in the fact that a person simply does not know how to make decisions, overcome obstacles, and is somewhat infantile.

Is it possible to say that there is a certain stereotype that is imposed by society – the opinion that quitting smoking is very difficult, almost unrealistic – and discourages smokers from the very desire to quit?

I don’t think so. Quitting smoking is really hard. But it is not as difficult as much of what we have to do in life. It is necessary to realize that problems, difficulties, moments of irritation, when a smoker grabs a cigarette, are also among non-smokers. And non-smokers successfully cope with them – in other ways.

Irritability, unpleasant physical sensations are all tolerable. You just need to answer the question: why am I quitting smoking? And then focus on the positive, not the negative. Not on “I feel bad”, but on “I have been free from cigarettes for three hours (or three days, three months) and now I can do something else.” For example, to play sports without choking.

Elena Polyakova

Smoking during pregnancy: myths, consequences, methods of quitting

SMOKING DURING PREGNANCY: MYTHS, CONSEQUENCES, QUIT METHODS

Smoking is a very harmful and very strong habit. Unfortunately, some women are not ready to give up cigarettes even during pregnancy, but it is smoking during pregnancy that poses the greatest danger to both the life of the fetus and the well-being of the expectant mother.

Why should you quit smoking during pregnancy?

There is a misconception that switching to light cigarettes during pregnancy minimizes the harmful effects of smoking on the fetus. In fact, the dose of nicotine in light cigarettes is not much lower than in regular cigarettes, and the content of poisonous tar and toxic compounds in tobacco smoke is almost the same. Even if you smoke only 2-3 cigarettes per day, the resulting nicotine will be enough to endanger the life and health of the baby. Therefore, during pregnancy, it is important not to reduce the daily dose of nicotine consumed, but to completely stop smoking. For many women, in order to understand why it is worth quitting smoking during pregnancy, it is important to understand exactly how maternal smoking affects the fetus. A tiny child inside a woman is defenseless – his fate depends entirely on the state and lifestyle of his mother.

The harm of smoking in the first weeks of pregnancy is maximum – the placenta has not yet formed and is not ready to protect the fetus from the ingress of toxins from the mother’s blood. When the formation of the placenta is completed, it becomes the only feeding artery and the main protector of the baby. But do not think that smoking in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy is safe. The placenta links the maternal bloodstream with the bloodstream of the fetus, transferring nutrients from the woman’s body to the child and at the same time preventing the entry of most toxic compounds that can harm the fetus. However, when smoking, drinking alcohol or other harmful substances, the placenta cannot cope with so many toxins – as a result, the fetus and the placenta itself suffer.

Influence of maternal smoking on the course of pregnancy and fetus

Practice shows that smoking during pregnancy leads to a number of negative consequences:

Placenta previa. In women who smoke, the placenta is often located too close to the uterine os (and sometimes partially or completely overlaps it), which threatens its detachment, premature birth, exclusion of the natural birth option, and severe birth bleeding. If placenta previa in a smoking woman is not diagnosed in a timely manner or is detected only during childbirth, it can cause the death of the mother and fetus.

Violation of the form and functions of the placenta. In women who smoke, the placenta changes – it becomes less elastic and more round. The natural blood flow in it is disturbed, which harms the nutrition of the fetus and its oxygen supply. Fetal hypoxia in smoking women is observed much more often than in non-smoking pregnant women.

Premature aging of the placenta and its punctate or extensive infarcts. Smoking during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of premature aging of the placenta. In addition, placental infarction in women who smoke is quite common, while in non-smoking pregnant women this problem is extremely rare.

Spontaneous miscarriage, premature birth, intrauterine fetal death. It is smoking during pregnancy that most often causes miscarriages or premature births. The influence of toxins on a defenseless child and a serious violation of placental metabolism due to smoking during pregnancy leads to intrauterine death of the fetus.

Small children. If a mother-to-be fails to quit smoking during pregnancy, her baby is more likely to be born with a low body weight, but it is the baby’s body weight at birth that often determines its viability and health.

Malformations of intrauterine development. Smoking during pregnancy greatly increases the risk of developing serious fetal pathologies. Among these pathologies, the most common are: heart problems, disorders in the formation of the bone apparatus, diseases of the liver and other organs.

Inhibition of intellectual development, psychological deviations, a tendency to nicotine addiction in a child – all these are the consequences of smoking during pregnancy. In addition, children born to a smoking mother are more likely than others to have learning problems – they perceive information worse, are difficult to discipline, show absent-mindedness and lack of concentration. In addition, such children often suffer from nervous excitability, experience difficulties in communicating with peers and elders.

Is it true that long-term smokers should not quit smoking during pregnancy? Many women who smoke reassure themselves that they cannot quit smoking because they are too addicted to nicotine. Surprisingly, many doctors also think so. Allegedly, quitting smoking in this case becomes a cause of severe stress and a threat to pregnancy. However, the negative impact of stress on the fetus is negligible compared to the harm caused to the unborn child by regular use of nicotine, so quitting smoking during pregnancy is a must – no matter how long you smoke.

The myth proclaiming that a woman who has been smoking for a long time during pregnancy should not give up cigarettes was invented by weak-willed ladies who do not care about the health of their unborn children. A woman who is not indifferent to the life and health of her baby will always find the courage to give up a dangerous habit at least for a while.

How to quit smoking during pregnancy

There are many ways for the average person to quit smoking – most of them based on the gradual reduction of the daily dose of nicotine. However, when a woman who smokes finds out that she is in a position, she should completely give up cigarettes as soon as possible. The sooner the expectant mother quits smoking, the higher her chances of a full-term pregnancy and the birth of a physically and mentally healthy baby. Obviously, methods for phasing out cigarettes during pregnancy are applicable. It is necessary to consult with a gynecologist or a psychiatrist-narcologist, as different recommendations may be given depending on the duration of pregnancy and the duration of nicotine addiction. So, for example, during pregnancy, nicotine chewing gum and patches are completely excluded. Quitting smoking during pregnancy using an electronic cigarette is also not recommended – smoking liquids contain high doses of nicotine. In addition, the technology for the production of electronic cigarettes and liquids for them is still poorly understood and not certified, so the use of carcinogens is not excluded. It turns out that during pregnancy it is worth quitting smoking in only one way – throw away all cigarettes and be patient. It is hard to imagine that a happy future mother may not have enough willpower to quit smoking for the sake of having a healthy baby.

Those who quit smoking are usually driven by boredom to return to cigarettes, and pregnant women have a great advantage in this regard – the period of pregnancy (especially the first one) is always very full of new positive sensations, experiences, pleasant shopping, communication, meeting new interesting people.

And if you smoke a little bit during pregnancy?

Many pregnant women who smoke try to keep to the “golden mean” – to reduce the number of cigarettes smoked to a minimum, but at the same time continue to smoke until the very birth. But is this measure sufficient? Of course, if you smoke quite a bit during pregnancy, the child will receive much less nicotine, but … Firstly, this amount of nicotine is enough to lead to disruption of the placenta, cause fetal hypoxia or various malformations. Secondly, there is a high probability that the newborn will inherit nicotine dependence from the smoking mother. Thirdly, the expectant mother and fetus will be subjected to severe stress every day – a woman will be nervous for hours waiting for a “legitimate” smoke break.

So don’t ask your gynecologist if you can smoke a little during pregnancy. Whatever his answer, he will not cancel the harmful effects of even small doses of nicotine on your baby.

Conclusion

Smoking during pregnancy is a huge threat to the life of the unborn child and his health, both physical and mental. It has been proven that pregnancy occurring against the background of strong nicotine addiction can result in miscarriage, premature birth, the birth of a small or handicapped child. In the most difficult cases, both mother and child risk dying during childbirth.

In order to carry and give birth to a healthy baby, it is recommended to stop smoking at least 6-12 months before the planned pregnancy. If you could not give up cigarettes before conception or pregnancy was a pleasant surprise for you, it is important to quit smoking as soon as possible.