Epidemiological evidence indicates that smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of many pregnancy related complications and is associated with many adverse postnatal problems. Around 15% of women still smoke throughout their pregnancy; younger women and those from more deprived backgrounds are much more likely to smoke. Behavioural support, available through NHS Stop Smoking Services, is effective but only accessed by a minority of smokers with most trying to quit alone. For this large group, self-help interventions may be an effective alternative.