Survey reveals one in four women smoke during pregnancy

One in four women smoke during pregnancy despite the increased risk of miscarriage or still-birth, a new study reveals. One-third miss out on crucial preparation by not planning their baby, according to the survey of 400 pregnant women.

The study, launched at the start of National Pregnancy Week, reveals widespread ignorance about pregnancy and the risks to the unborn child. More than one in five women are unaware that it is safe and beneficial to continue normal exercise during pregnancy, and one in three do not know that taking folic acid before conception and in the early stages of pregnancy can reduce the risk of the baby developing spina bifida.