Nicorette Use In Pregnancy & Lactation

Women of childbearing potential/Contraception in males and females: In contrast to the well-known adverse effects of tobacco smoking on human conception and pregnancy, the effects of therapeutic nicotine treatment are unknown. Thus, whilst to date no specific advice regarding the need for female contraception has been found to be necessary, the most prudent state for women intending to become pregnant to be in is to be both non-smoking, and not using NRT.
Whilst smoking may have adverse effects on male fertility, no evidence exists that particular contraceptive measures are required during NRT treatment by males.
Fertility: In females, tobacco smoking delays time to conception, decreases in-vitro fertilization success rates, and significantly increases the risk of infertility. In males, tobacco smoking reduces sperm production, increases oxidative stress, and DNA damage. Spermatozoa from smokers have reduced fertilizing capacity. The specific contribution of nicotine to these effects in humans is unknown.
Pregnancy: Smoking during pregnancy is associated with risks such as intra-uterine growth retardation, premature birth or stillbirth. Stopping smoking is the single most effective intervention for improving the health of both the pregnant smoker and her baby. The earlier abstinence is achieved the better. Nicotine passes to the foetus and affects its breathing movements and circulation. The effect on the circulation is dose-dependent. Therefore, the pregnant smoker should always be advised to stop smoking completely without use of nicotine replacement therapy. The risk of continued smoking may pose greater hazard to the foetus as compared with the use of nicotine replacement products in a supervised smoking cessation programme. Use of the medicated chewing gum by the pregnant smoker should only be initiated after advice from a health care professional.
Breastfeeding: Nicotine passes freely into breast milk in quantities that may affect the child even with therapeutic doses. Nicotine should therefore be avoided during breast feeding. Should smoking cessation not be achieved, use of the medicated chewing gum by breast feeding smokers should only be initiated after advice from a health care professional.
Women should take the product as soon as possible after breastfeeding.