Exercise helps pregnant women quit cigarettes

24 Sep 2008

New research has found that exercising during pregnancy is an effective way to quit smoking.

Two studies from the University of London involving 32 pregnant women who smoked regularly found that even moderate intensity physical activity such as a brisk walk reduced the urge to smoke.

A quarter of the women had quite smoking eight months into the pregnancy, and the same amount continued smoking abstinence, news-medical.net reports.

Additionally, 75% of participants managed to reach the target level of 110 minutes a week of physical exercise and activity.

Despite warnings, reports suggest that 17% of women in the UK and 20 per cent of women in the US continue to smoke during pregnancy.

Smoking while pregnant, much like drinking, can reduce birth weight and height, and lead to learning difficulties and behavioural problems.

The NHS say that in most cases, using Nicotine Replacement products is fine during pregnancy, although it may be advisable to check with a doctor in case.

Please click here for pregnancy advice and pregnancy information.

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