Nicotine replacements

Tobacco use during pregnancy can lead to many complications. Healthcare professionals advise quitting all forms of nicotine during pregnancy. The use of therapy may be enough for some. For those who have trouble quitting, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) may be an option. The use of patches, gum, lozenges and other forms of nicotine may help people who smoke quit.

All in all, nicotine replacement therapy is considered safer than smoking because NRT has fewer toxins. Nicotine replacement products provide smaller amounts of nicotine in a slower-release form. This decreases cravings and makes quitting easier.

More research is needed to fully understand the effects of NRT use during pregnancy. It is generally recommended to use the lowest effective dose. Discuss the risks and benefits of the different forms of NRT with your healthcare professional to decide what is right for you.