A recent survey by Public Health France has revealed that more than one in 10 French women continue to smoke throughout their pregnancy, despite the well-known health risks for both mothers and newborns. The study also found that 24% of mothers of young children reported smoking when they learned of their pregnancy. While 45% of these women stopped smoking, 51% reduced their smoking, and 4% continued to smoke at the same level. It was also noted that 7% of women reported drinking alcohol during their last pregnancy, with improvements compared to previous survey data.
Smoking during pregnancy is linked to adverse outcomes such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, and placental abruption. Even light smoking before or during pregnancy can increase the risk of serious neonatal health complications. However, quitting smoking during pregnancy can be incredibly difficult, with many women relapsing quickly if they attempt to quit.
Caroline Combot, president of the French National Union Organisation of Midwives, emphasized the importance of supporting pregnant women in quitting smoking and alcohol consumption. She highlighted the need for better communication about the challenges of quitting smoking during pregnancy, as well as the importance of both parents taking steps to wean off tobacco to create a supportive environment.
Public Health France stressed the importance of continuing prevention efforts and providing support to women struggling with substance use during pregnancy. The agency emphasized that the number of women and children affected is significant and called for increased efforts to address the issue.
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