Genesis Introduces Smoking Cessation Course For Expectant Mothers
Despite the U.S. Surgeon General's warning of adverse health effects of smoking during pregnancy, it's estimated that 12 to 22 percent of expectant mothers smoke. A number that needs to be greatly reduced.
Genesis Medical Center and the Tobacco Free Quad Cities are teaming up to offer "Smoking Cessation for the Expectant Mother," a program designed to help participants quit smoking while meeting the special needs of an expectant mother.
The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Department will provide staff to facilitate the program, a first of its kind in the area. Materials were adapted from the American Lung Association's "Freedom From Smoking" curriculum, with emphasis on pregnancy and newborns. Medical professionals can offer the knowledge and support needed to become smoke-free. "In 'Smoking Cessation for the Expectant Mother' we recognize the needs of the unborn child and provide a smoke-free environment before and after birth," said Chris Pekios, Smoking Cessation Program Coordinator, Genesis Medical Center's Pulmonary Rehabilitation Department.
The course has been divided into three sessions, each an hour and a half in length. The effects of smoking on infants and children are discussed. Additionally, the necessary steps of smoking cessation are outlined, and specific information about maintenance and management is included.
"We have created a comfortable setting by bringing members of the same population together," said JaNan Less, Disease Prevention Specialist, Scott County Health Department. "Here, we examine some of the unique benefits and effects of smoking cessation on expectant mothers."
Some of the withdrawal symptoms that occur after quitting are: nervousness, inability to concentrate, headaches, irritability and difficulty sleeping. While positive bodily changes include a return to normal blood pressure, circulation, and heart rate; the decline in risk for heart and lung diseases and cancer; and increased energy levels.
Recent government reports associate smoking during pregnancy with increased reproductive risks. Infants born to women who smoke during pregnancy have a lower average birth weight, and the likelihood of perinatal mortality, stillbirths and neonatal deaths, and sudden infant death syndrome is higher for the offspring of women who smoke during pregnancy.
"Smoking Cessation for the Expectant Mother" will take place in the Annunciata Classroom at Genesis Medical Center, West Campus, and is scheduled to begin the first Wednesday of every month. The cost is $35. For more information or to register, call Genesis On Call at 563-421-2000 or Click here to register online!