If you are pregnant and use a vape, or are thinking about switching from smoking to vaping, you may be asking yourself whether vaping is safe during pregnancy. It is a very common concern, especially for those trying to quit smoking while protecting their baby’s health.
In this article, we will look at what the latest guidance says in the UK, the risks involved, and what your options are if you are trying to manage nicotine cravings during pregnancy.
Is it safe to vape during pregnancy?
The short answer is no, it is not completely safe. Vaping during pregnancy is not risk-free. Most e-liquids contain nicotine, and nicotine is known to affect a baby’s development. It can reduce oxygen flow, affect brain growth and impact heart and lung development.
That said, if you are already smoking cigarettes, switching to a vape may be a safer alternative. This is known as harm reduction. While vaping is not safe, it is considered to be less harmful than continuing to smoke.
The ideal goal is to stop using nicotine completely. But if quitting smoking is proving difficult, vaping may be a stepping stone on the way to stopping entirely.
Why is nicotine a concern in pregnancy?
Nicotine can cross the placenta and affect the baby’s body as it grows. It may impact:
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Brain and nervous system development
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Lung growth
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Birth weight
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Heart function
Nicotine also restricts blood vessels, which can reduce blood flow and oxygen to the baby. Even small amounts can have an effect, especially in the early stages of pregnancy when major organs are forming.
What about vaping without nicotine?
Using a nicotine-free vape may reduce some of the risks, but it still involves inhaling vapour that contains flavourings and other ingredients. While these substances are approved for food use, their long-term effects when inhaled during pregnancy are not fully understood.
Because of this, most health professionals recommend avoiding vaping altogether during pregnancy, even if the liquid does not contain nicotine.
What does the NHS say?
The NHS recognises that vaping is less harmful than smoking. If someone is unable to quit cigarettes, switching to a regulated vape product is encouraged as a way to reduce harm. However, the ultimate goal should always be to stop using nicotine completely.
Pregnant people are encouraged to speak to a midwife, GP or stop smoking service for personalised support. Free nicotine replacement therapy is often available through the NHS during pregnancy.
Can you use patches or gum instead?
Yes, nicotine replacement products like patches, sprays or gum are often recommended during pregnancy. These methods provide nicotine without exposing your lungs or baby to vapour or harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke.
Always speak to your healthcare provider before using any nicotine replacement product while pregnant. They can help you find the best and safest method for your situation.
Should I stop vaping before getting pregnant?
If you are trying to conceive or thinking about starting a family, it is a good idea to stop using nicotine before pregnancy begins. This gives your body time to adjust and ensures your baby gets the healthiest start possible.
Reducing your nicotine strength slowly, switching to a lower-strength device or cutting down your usage can help make the process smoother. Many vapers use pod-style kits like the Lost Mary BM6000 when managing cravings, but this should not be used during pregnancy.
How can I get help to quit?
There is a lot of support available in the UK for people looking to quit nicotine during pregnancy. Start by speaking to your midwife or GP. You can also access NHS stop smoking services, which offer free one-to-one advice, nicotine replacement and tailored support.
You are not alone in this. Many pregnant people struggle with nicotine cravings, and there is no shame in needing support to stop.
Want more help understanding how vaping affects your body?
We have a full health guides section that covers vaping and oral health, energy levels, side effects and more. These guides are written to help you make informed decisions, whether you are cutting down or stopping altogether.
Final thoughts
Vaping during pregnancy is not recommended. While it may be less harmful than smoking, it is still not considered safe for your baby. Nicotine can affect development and increase the risk of complications.
If you are already vaping and find it hard to stop, speak to your healthcare provider about nicotine replacement options and personalised support. Reducing harm is important, and every step you take matters.
For parenting-related questions, see can you vape while breastfeeding.
To understand risks in more detail, does vaping affect fertility may also help.