Lifting the fog.

Abstract

It is well established that maternal smoking can result in serious health consequences. Smoking cessation interventions for pregnant women can effectively reduce the rate of maternal smoking and consequently prevent perinatal morbidity. Although motivation is high for women in pregnancy to stop smoking, few achieve this status on their own. The support available varies throughout the country; this article describes the service available in Fife, Scotland. Support is provided by two specialist midwives and is funded by the Scottish Government. It is one of the few midwife-led services available in Scotland. Home visits are the foundation of its success, enabling engagement with women in areas of deprivation. Individualised care is provided and extended to partners and other family members who are interested in stopping smoking.