WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for March, 2001: Re: pre-pregnancy question

Re: pre-pregnancy question

From: Patti Tessler, Family Nurse Practitioner (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Tue, 6 Mar 2001 08:39:49 -0600 (CST)

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At Mon, 5 Mar 2001, Kasey wrote: >
> My husband and I are planning on having a baby in the near future and I
>have two major concerns. I smoke and know of the effects it has on the
>fetus. Therefore I want to quit but I am unsure how long I have to be a
>"non-smoker" before the conception to ensure the smoking does not affect the
>baby. Is there a recommended time period after quitting smoking before one
>should become pregnant?

I don't know of any sure number. The March of Dimes reports that smoking reduces fertility for at least six months after quitting (see http://www.modimes.org/HealthLibrary2/FactSheets/SmokingDuringPregnancy.htm), suggesting that it may have affects for at least that long. It's also critical that you don't start smoking again after the baby is born, as noted in the fact sheet referenced above.

>Also, I am on Zoloft and would like to know whether
>I should stop taking it before or while pregnant.

That decision is invididualized, and so must by made by a women in consultation with the prescribing clinician. We can not advise you on that topic without knowing your complete history and exam information.

Hurray for your efforts in giving your future child the best possible start!

--
Patti Tessler, BSN, MSN, RN, CS
Family Nurse Practitioner

I'm sorry that I can not respond to private emails.
All private emails received will be ignored.
I regret that the recent increase in volume precludes a polite redirection.

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