Number of SA pregnant women smoking 'disappointing'
08/21/05
A new report has prompted the South Australian Health Department to issue a warning to women of the risks of smoking during pregnancy.
A departmental report found that one in five women continue to smoke during their pregnancy.
Health Minister Lea Stevens says the findings remain disappointing even though there has been a decline in pregnant women smoking.
Twenty five per cent of women smoked in 1998.
The figure dropped to 20 per cent in 2003.
Ms Stevens says smoking can effect fertility and increase the risk of complications during pregnancy.