Midwives' experiences and attitudes to a smoking cessation programme for pregnant women: A phenomenographic study

Abstract

Background: Women who smoke whilst pregnant are increasing globally. Midwives are seen as frontline professionals for providing smoking cessation interventions to pregnant women. Yet, there is a dearth of studies on attitudes of these professionals to smoking cessation work in pregnancy. Aim: This paper reports on a study that explored midwives' experiences and attitudes toward a smoking cessation programme of a midwifery service in England. Method: This study utilised a phenomenographic methodology. A criterion purposive sampling approach was used, and 17 participants were recruited to take part in the study. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken for data collection, and a thematic analysis was used, based on Sjöström and Dahlgren's approach. Results: Four superordinate themes emerged from the data analysis: reasons for smoking; attitudes toward smoking in pregnancy; attitudes toward the smoking cessation programme, and barriers to smoking cessation. Conclusion: Smoking cessation should not be considered in isolation from the lives of pregnant women. Midwives need ongoing training and support to enhance their skills, knowledge and confidence in smoking cessation work.