Reducing Risk

A number of risk factors for preterm birth, low birth weight, and cesarean section have been found. On this page we bring together resources for reducing the risk of prematurity. Smoking and short time period between pregnancies have been linked to at least one of these health indicators. Preconception counseling is a key step to reducing these and other risks.

Stop Smoking
Birth Spacing

Stop Smoking

The essential info about pregnancy and smoking

See the pregnancy and smoking page on smokefree.gov for important information.

Listen to podcast recordings

If You're Pregnant and You Smoke (Podcast Download; Transcript) (en español; Transcripción)
Pregnancy and Smoking (Transcript)
Quitting Tobacco—Talk with Your Doctor (Podcast Download; Transcript)

Have iOS? Get the Smokefree QuitGuide App

The Smokefree QuitGuide app for iPhone

Birth Spacing

Getting pregnant too soon after a previous pregnancy raises the risk for prematurity, low birth weight, and other pregnancy complications. The use of contraception reduces this risk. Use the locator below to find local Title X family planning clinics that provide low cost or free reproductive health services.