You've quit smoking because you're pregnant. At first, not smoking will be new and exciting. It's the best sort of change. People will congratulate you. You have a right to be proud, so enjoy it. But then what? How do you stay smoke-free when life goes back to normal? Plan ahead to fight temptation. Be aware of signs that warn of a slip.
"Quitting smoking has taught me a lot. I guess we all came out ahead."
Make Your Success Stronger
Get busy and build on your early success. List the benefits of staying smoke-free. Your list, like your life, will change. You're finding out who you are as a nonsmoker. Remember how smoking can affect your baby. Then ask yourself, "Which is more important-smoking, or my baby?"
Prepare to Be Tempted
You will be tempted. Tough times are still ahead. Get ready to resist your urge to smoke. You know the triggers: car trips, holidays, seeing friends who still smoke. The tips below can help you resist.
- Talk to your baby.
- Make your home a "Smoke-free Zone."
- Make a list of all you can smell, taste, and do better since you quit smoking.
- Pack a survival kit to take in the car.
- When you eat out, go to smoke-free restaurants.
Heed Warning Signs
Ever daydream about smoking? Or go to risky places, like lunch with a group of smokers? These could be warning signs that you're headed for a slip. If you feel tempted to smoke, ask yourself when and why you feel this way.
HALT Your Desire!
Keep yourself from feeling too Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired.
- Hungry? Fix yourself a healthy snack.
- Angry? Try some slow, deep breathing.
- Lonely? Visit a nonsmoking friend.
- Tired? Kick off your shoes, take a nap.
If You Slip
If you do slip, it doesn't mean you're not quitting. Whether you sneak a smoke or boldly inhale, tell yourself you're no longer a smoker. A slip is not a relapse. Don't let all your hard work so far be lost. Find out why you lit up. Then make a new plan to help yourself be stronger.
Find Out Why You Slipped
A slip can be useful. If you're honest, the slip might tell you something. Do your best to answer these questions:
- How did the cigarette taste?
- How did your hands smell after you smoked?
- What did you learn about being tempted?
- Have you found a new trigger?
- What can you do to avoid slips in the future?