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Healthy pregnancy

Smoking, alcohol, drugs. Can we help?

The substances in tobacco, alcohol, and drugs can pass through the placenta — and therefore also reach your baby. This can affect growth, organ development, and birth weight. The risk of premature birth or complications during delivery increases.

But let’s be honest: quitting isn’t just a matter of ‘simply stopping’.  Quitting is often easier said than done. Maybe you’ve already tried several times, or you feel guilty because it hasn’t worked. If that’s the case: you’re not alone — and you don’t have to do it alone. Especially now, it’s important to have someone who looks along with you — without judgment, but with professional knowledge. 

What we do and don’t know

✔ Smoking, drinking, and drug use can be harmful to your baby
✔ Every reduction is progress — quitting completely is best, but cutting down also helps
✔ Addiction isn’t a matter of ‘lack of willpower’ but a serious challenge
✔ There’s no shame in asking for help
✔ We’re not here to judge — we’re here to help

What if quitting doesn’t work?

It can be frustrating to know you should stop, but find that you can’t. Once you’re pregnant, the pressure only increases. Shame, guilt, and fear can get in the way. That’s why we want to be very clear:
👉 You don’t have to do this alone
👉 Every step toward less use is already positive
👉 We can help you find the right kind of support

We work together with addiction care services and can guide you to the right help. You don’t have to tell us everything right away. Often, just one first conversation is enough to decide together on a way forward.

Are you unsure or do you have questions? Talk to us — together we’ll find a path that works for you and your baby.

FAQ Smoking

Is stress more harmful than smoking?

No, that’s not true. Smoking during pregnancy is more harmful than the stress you experience when quitting. When you stop smoking, the stress only lasts for a while. When you smoke, your body experiences constant stress.

My partner still smokes or drinks. Does that affect anything?

Yes, definitely. Smoking near a pregnant person (passive smoking) can also be harmful. It helps a lot if your partner supports you. We can also have a conversation together if that feels helpful.

What are the risks for your baby?

If you smoke during pregnancy, your baby is exposed to serious risks.

Here’s an overview of the main risks:

  • Increased risk of miscarriage
  • Organs may not develop properly
  • Cleft lip and/or clubfoot
  • Higher chance of premature birth
  • Low birth weight
  • Premature detachment of the placenta
I still smoke two cigarettes a day. Is that really so bad?

Every cigarette has an impact, which is why we’d like to help you quit completely. We’re here to support you in becoming completely smoke-free — for yourself and your baby.

Can you help me stop smoking?

Yes! We’ve received special training to help you stop smoking safely and effectively.

Afraid to tell us that you smoke?

You don’t have to be! There’s no need to feel ashamed if you smoke. Many women find it very difficult to quit. Let us help you — you don’t have to do it alone.

Read more about smoking and preganncy:
Dutch websites ikstopnu.nl and thuisarts.nl, or go to the English www.nhs.uk, smokefree.gov, www.who.int, www.marchofdimes.org, smokefree.gov, 

FAQ Alcohol

I just found out I’m pregnant — can I still drink alcohol?

No. It’s best to stop drinking alcohol completely as soon as you know you’re pregnant.

In the first months of pregnancy, your baby’s organs are developing — and that’s exactly when alcohol can be most harmful.

What are the risks of drinking alcohol during pregnancy?

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, or stillbirth.

Your baby can also develop both physical and mental health problems. For example, they may cry often, have trouble sleeping, or be very restless. Later in life, learning difficulties or physical and intellectual disabilities can occur. That may sound severe — and it is. That’s why we’re here to help you stop drinking alcohol safely.

Can I drink beer with 0.5% alcohol?

Preferably not. It’s better to choose a variant with 0.0% alcohol. That way, you can be sure your baby isn’t exposed to any alcohol-related risks.

Read more about alcohol and pregnancy:

Dutch information

English information

FAQ Drugs

Why is using drugs during pregnancy dangerous?

Using drugs during pregnancy is dangerous for your baby. Even after birth, as your child grows older, they may still experience the effects of the drugs used during pregnancy.

Possible problems your baby may experience include:

  • Delays in emotional development and understanding
  • Delays in motor skills and movement
  • Physical abnormalities
I’ve used drugs and just found out I’m pregnant. What should I do?

Call us! We can assess what possible risks may be involved. This depends on the type of drugs used and the stage of pregnancy. Together we can decide whether further checks or specialist ultrasounds are needed.

I’m afraid I’ll get into trouble if I’m honest about using drugs.

That’s understandable — but not necessary. The goal is never to punish anyone, but to keep both mother and baby as healthy as possible. Being open helps us provide the right care. And remember — we’ve been doing this work for many years. You’re never the first. Let our experience help you.

Read more about drugs and pregnancy:

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