Quitting smoking tobacco or vaping is one of the most important steps a couple can take to support their own health and the health of their future baby.

Smoking can reduce fertility by affecting sperm and egg quality. During pregnancy, smoking tobacco increases the risk of miscarriage and can limit the nutrients your baby receives, impacting growth and development. Exposure to second-hand smoke also has documented negative effects on a baby’s health, making it valuable for couples to quit together before conception.

The long-term effects of vaping on preconception health are not yet fully understood. Many vapes contain nicotine, even when labelled ‘nicotine-free,’ as well as other harmful or potentially cancer-causing substances. Some vapes also contain compounds similar to those found in paint or heavy-duty cleaning products, which are environmental toxins that should be avoided prior to pregnancy.

Supporting individuals and couples to quit smoking or vaping before conception is an effective way to prioritise health and improve outcomes for their future child.

Quitting smoking tobacco or vaping can improve mood and help manage stress, anxiety and depression. While nicotine withdrawal can temporarily worsen these symptoms, continuing to smoke or vape perpetuates the cycle. Beginning the cessation process before pregnancy allows mental health to be better managed in advance.

When supporting consumers to quit, discuss their previous attempts and recognise that approaches need to be tailored – what might work for one person may not work for another. Individualised support increases the likelihood of successful cessation and long-term health benefits for both parents and their future child.

When supporting consumers, explore what matters most to them beyond preconception health. Motivators could include:

• Improving overall wellbeing, boosting energy, achieving personal fitness goals
• Managing stress, setting a healthy example for existing children or family, or protecting them second-hand smoke
• Saving money

Understanding individual priorities allows you to frame preconception health changes in ways that feel meaningful and achievable, increasing the likelihood of sustained behaviour change.

Encourage consumers to know that every smoke they avoid improves their health and saves them money. It is never too late to quit. Encourage them to talk to their loved ones or a GP to identify what supports might work best for them.