Smoking cessation and nicotine replacement therapy in current primary maternity care.

Aim: To determine attitudes, activity and confidence among general practitioners and midwives about smoking cessation practice, and use of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Method: A postal survey of 780 New Zealand health professionals providing maternity care.

Results: 274 GPs (82 practising obstetrics) and 184 midwives responded (RR: 64%), with most (88% GPs, 77% midwives) regarding providing smoking cessation advice integral to their job. Only about half gave smoking cessation advice to most pregnant women who smoked. They were uncertain about the safety of NRT use in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Most respondents requested more information about NRT use.

Discussion: Smoking cessation practice falls short of respondents' beliefs about good practice and current recommendations.