Support for smoking cessation, relapse prevention and prevention of infant second-hand smoke exposure in the early postpartum period: women’s reported receipt of care and associated characteristics

Abstract Background Smoking during the postpartum period poses significant risks to maternal and infant health. There is a need for sustained smoking abstinence support beyond pregnancy, given the high rate of postpartum relapse. This study aimed to assess women’s receipt of care for smoking cessation, relapse prevention and prevention of infant second-hand smoke exposure in the postpartum period, and the maternal and service characteristics associated with such care. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted with women who had recently given birth in one health district in New South Wales, Australia. Results Of the 536 postpartum participants, 6% currently smoked and 6% had recently quit. Almost three quarters (71%) were asked about their smoking during postpartum health visits and 43% were asked if they had recently quit. Participants from disadvantaged areas had significantly higher odds of smoking status assessment ( p = 0.041). Assessment of recent quitting was associated with younger age ( p < 0.001); being single ( p = 0.004) and lower level of education ( p < 0.001). Child and family health nurses and Aboriginal medical services were significantly more likely than general practitioners to assess smoking ( p < 0.001), assess recent quitting ( p < 0.001) and to provide support to prevent infant second-hand smoke exposure ( p < 0.001). Conclusions Care for smoking cessation, relapse prevention and prevention of infant second-hand smoke exposure in the postpartum period may be less than optimal. Future studies should identify provider barriers and examine effective strategies to improve the provision of recommended care.