Smoking and Cannabis Use Reduction for Pregnancy

(PICTURe Trial)

This trial aims to help pregnant individuals quit using tobacco and cannabis and remain smoke-free after giving birth. It focuses on a perinatal smoking cessation treatment that addresses prenatal depressive symptoms, which can complicate quitting. The trial seeks participants who are pregnant, less than 26 weeks along, and currently use tobacco and cannabis or did so before pregnancy. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could enhance maternal and infant health.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it focuses on reducing tobacco and cannabis use during pregnancy.

Research shows that treatments to help quit smoking during pregnancy are generally safe and can lower risks for both the mother and baby. Studies have found that quitting smoking while pregnant leads to better outcomes, such as a lower chance of early delivery and stillbirth.

One study found that counseling and support, known as psychosocial interventions, effectively helped pregnant women stop smoking. This type of treatment increased the number of women who quit and reduced tobacco use. Other studies also report that quitting smoking during pregnancy improves health outcomes for newborns.

Researchers are excited about the perinatal smoking cessation treatment because it specifically targets smoking reduction during pregnancy, a critical period for both the mother and baby's health. Unlike standard nicotine replacement therapies or counseling, this approach is being tailored to the unique needs and challenges faced by pregnant individuals. The potential to improve outcomes for both mothers and their babies by focusing on a comprehensive, supportive strategy during pregnancy is what makes this treatment stand out from existing options.

Research shows that treatments to help quit smoking during pregnancy can greatly increase the chances of expectant mothers stopping smoking. Studies have found that women who quit smoking while pregnant often face fewer risks of problems, such as early delivery and other negative effects on the baby. Specifically, programs offering counseling and support have proven very effective. For example, five studies found a significant increase in the number of women who stopped smoking when they received these targeted programs. Overall, quitting smoking during pregnancy can significantly reduce the harmful effects of tobacco on the baby's growth and improve health for both the mother and baby.¹²³⁶⁷