Smoking trajectories and psychological characteristics among Belgian pregnant women

Smoking during pregnancy is an important health issue. Although the harmful consequences of this behavior are now proven and prevention campaigns are increasing, studies showed that between 15 and 20% of Belgian pregnant women don't achieve total smoking cessation (Cousin et al., 2008; ONE, 2015). With reference to the study of Nichter et al. (2007), this research aimed to identify smoking trajectories likely to emerge during pregnancy and to assess whether a particular psychological experience could be associated with each trajectory. 113 pregnant women who were daily smokers when announcing their pregnancy completed an online form including 6 standardized questionnaires (about smoking dependence, coping, self-esteem, social support, feeling of self-efficacy and depression). Statistical analyzes revealed 4 trajectories: weaned, reducing, wavering and maintaining. No specific psychological experience was found but a high rate of potentially depressed women was identified (56,7%). Finally, while most of the participants stated they originally intended to quit smoking, some indicated they had not tried to modulate their consumption. Health care professionals should therefore paid attention to the patients' motivation to quit smoking or reduce consumption. Their support during pregnancy is particularly valuable in case of relapse. Special attention should also be given to distress symptoms.