There is no getting away from it smoking and drinking in excess are bad for you, we all know that and when planning a baby
you just have to bite the bullet and give up smoking before you get pregnant. It is argued that drinking alcohol regularly,
even in small quantities, can reduce the fertility of both partners thus making conception less likely.
Smoking during pregnancy can result in the birth of a smaller baby. Smaller babies tend to be more vulnerable and can have
health problems. Furthermore, recent studies have raised concern about the health risks associated with passive smoking, that
is, a non-smoker inhaling smoke while in the company of smokers. So, as part of your pre-pregnancy routine you should both
try to stop smoking and cut down on the amount of alcohol you drink and stay out of smoky atmospheres, it will give you good
practice for when the baby is born. Your family doctor will be able to give you more advice and support on how to give up.
