Quitting smoking

Quitting Methods During Pregnancy

Chose an approach that will work for you.

Cold Turkey
For many people going cold turkey is the most successful way of quitting. Going cold turkey means stopping suddenly and completely without cutting down.

Quitline / Counselling
Phone the Quitline for a free Quit Kit or to speak to a trained counsellor on 131 848 or 1800 198 024 (toll free for country callers).

Quitting Information
Call HealthInfo at the Department of Health on 1300 135 030.

Ask your midwife, antenatal educator or GP for advice.

Support groups
There are a number of support groups available for people trying to quit smoking.

Fresh Start Course
The Cancer Foundation of Western Australia’s Fresh Start course is a comprehensive short course which provides information, resources and support to smokers wanting to quit and stay stopped.

The course covers issues such as nicotine addiction, managing withdrawal symptoms, weight control, stress management, recognising and planning for possible obstacles to quitting, staying stopped and enjoying being a non-smoker. For more information phone the Cancer Helpline on 13 11 20.

Psychologists- Clinical and Counselling Psychologists.
Psychologists working in this area use a wide range of techniques. Some work with individuals and some run focus groups. For more information, please contact the Australian Psychological Society on 1800 333 497 (toll free).

Community Drug Service Teams
Community Drug Service Teams based throughout Western Australia that sometimes offer free Quit Support Groups. To find your local Community Drug Service Team contact the Quitline on 131 848.

Herbal
Herbal remedies are not usually recommended for pregnant or breast feeding women. If you are considering using a herbal remedy always consult with your doctor and pharmacist before taking any products.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy
(Gum, Patches, Inhalers)

Nicotine Replacement Therapy is not usually recommended for pregnant or breast feeding women. If you are considering using drug therapy you should always consult with your doctor and pharmacist before taking these products.

Other pharmacological Aids
Zyban (Buproprion Hydrochloride)

Zyban has the active ingredient buproprion hydrochloride and has to be prescribed by a doctor. Zyban is not usually recommended for pregnant or breast feeding women.

Alternative Methods
While there is often interest in acupuncture, hypnotherapy, herbal and homeopathic preparations there is insufficient evidence on their effectiveness of these as quitting methods. Alternative methods are not recommended for pregnant or breast feeding women. If you are considering using an alternative method you should always consult your doctor before taking these products.

Coping with withdrawal symptoms
It is important to have strategies ready for when you experience cravings, such as the 4D’s

Delay: For a few minutes and the urge will pass
Drink water: Sip it slowly
Deep breathe: Take three slow, deep breaths
Do something else: To take your mind off smoking.