The risks of smoking while pregnant have been publicised time and time again, with previous research linking it to low birth weight as well as other developmental problems. Now, in light of concerning new statistics on the number of British women continuing the habit while expecting, a new strategy has been introduced.
In response to findings that almost 20% (1.,2%) of new mums in North Lincolnshire are still smoking right up to their delivery, an incentive service has been rolled out to help them kick the habit.
As part of the Me Time Healthy Pregnancy Club, launched this week, women in the Lincolnshire area will be offered gift vouchers as incentives to quit smoking ahead of the birth of their little ones.
The service, which was rolled out following success in other areas including Wirral and Slough, will encourage mums-to-be by presenting them with the vouchers after going four, eight and 12 weeks smoke-free.
The move has been praised by local politicians, who believe the programme will go a long way to lowering the rate of pregnant smokers in the area.
Previous research, carried out by a team at from Glasgow and Sterling Universities, revealed that pregnant women would give up smoking for shopping vouchers.
