Perceptions of emerging tobacco products and nicotine replacement therapy among pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy

Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of perceptions and attitudes towards emerging tobacco products and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) among pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy. The study, conducted through focus groups, explores the views of women on the use of such products during pregnancy.

Key Points:

* The study included 102 women, with an average of 7 per group, and was conducted in four cities in the US.
* Participants were divided into pregnant smokers, pregnant quitters, and smokers planning a pregnancy.
* Most women were unfamiliar with snus and dissolvable products, but noted some potential advantages, such as use in smoke-free areas and ease of hiding.
* Participants had greater familiarity with ENDS and NRT, with a substantial number having used or currently using ENDS.
* Women expressed concern about the potential risks of nicotine exposure during pregnancy and many preferred to quit without assistance from other tobacco or medicinal products.
* Some women viewed non-combusted products, particularly ENDS, as less hazardous than smoking.
* The study highlights the need for better education of pregnant women about the risks of nicotine and tobacco exposure during pregnancy.

Main Message:
The text emphasizes the importance of understanding the perceptions and attitudes of pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy towards emerging tobacco products and NRT. The findings can inform future research and public health efforts to reduce the risks associated with tobacco product use among women of reproductive age. It is crucial to educate pregnant women about the risks of nicotine and tobacco exposure during pregnancy, as many women are misinformed about the effects of different routes of nicotine exposure. Additionally, the study highlights the need for further research into the impact of ENDS on fetal nicotine exposure and postpartum relapse among quitters.

England, Lucinda J., Van T. Tong, Amber Koblitz, Julia Kish-Doto, Molly M. Lynch, and Brian G. Southwell. “Perceptions of Emerging Tobacco Products and Nicotine Replacement Therapy among Pregnant Women and Women Planning a Pregnancy.” Preventive Medicine Reports 4 (December 2016): 481–85. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmedr.2016.09.002.