This qualitative study investigated cigarette smoking decisions among mothers with opioid use disorder during pregnancy and after childbirth. Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 23 mothers whose infants were two to seven months old, examining barriers and motivations related to reducing or stopping cigarette use.
Fifteen participants reported smoking both before and after delivery, six smoked during pregnancy only, and two did not smoke. Mothers recognized potential harms of infant smoke exposure and described steps to reduce exposure. They also identified caregiving demands, stress related to recovery, household smoking, social support, and differing advice from clinicians and others as influences on smoking decisions. The authors conclude that smoking cessation support for this population should account for the pressures of recovery and parenting.
Original summary for clinical review. Read the published study.
