Barriers to smoking cessation in pregnancy: a qualitative study

The magnitude of smoking as a public health concern in Britain is reflected in the recent government investment to develop smoking cessation services. Smoking in pregnancy is a priority. This article presents the findings of a small qualitative research study exploring barriers to pregnant women stopping smoking. The research was conducted in deprived areas of South Yorkshire, with levels of smoking-related ill health higher than the national average. The study participants revealed a belief system resulting in a self-fulfilling prophecy of relapse or failure to quit. The role and meaning of smoking for women with a high caring burden and socio-economic problems resonate strongly with earlier studies. Other barriers were the influence of family and friends, how women interpreted facts relating to smoking risks and the nature of smoking cessation service delivery. Community nursing staff have a potential in the delivery of smoking cessation interventions. Effective training should be a priority.