Healthsheet | Published February 16, 2009

Quitting Smoking During Pregnancy: Beating Withdrawal

Some of the most common withdrawal symptoms are:

Snacking more
Getting headaches

Having trouble sleeping
Feeling low on energy

Feeling cranky or restless

Use the Four D’s

Withdrawal symptoms and smoking urges are strongest the first few days. Use the Four D’s below to help when you crave a smoke.

Deep-breathe

Inhale through your nose. Try to feel as if you are breathing into your stomach. Then slowly exhale all the air through your mouth. Repeat this 4 to 5 times. This can help calm the urge to smoke.

Drink Water

This keeps your mouth fresh and flushes nicotine from your body.

Do Something

File your nails. Learn a nursery rhyme. Write a note to a friend.

Delay!

Put off smoking. The urge to smoke lasts only 3 to 5 minutes.