Implementing E-Cigarettes as an Alternate Smoking Cessation Tool during Pregnancy: A Process Evaluation at Two UK Sites

Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of adverse maternal and foetal health outcomes, with effective smoking cessation support important. E-cigarette use in the general population has increased rapidly in recent years, with their use viewed as an alternate, additional offer to nicotine-replacement therapy and behavioural support. However, their use in pregnancy has limited investigation. This study aimed to understand how two e-cigarette pilots for pregnant women were delivered and implemented. Referrals to the general stop smoking in pregnancy service, as well as pilot enrolment, engagement and outcomes were recorded. Seven professionals involved in pilot 2 design, setup and/or delivery took part in semi-structured interviews informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Transcripts were deductively coded into CFIR. In total, 124 of 296 women accessed at least one visit after being contacted and offered the e-cigarette pilot (Pilot 1: N = 99, Pilot 2: N = 25). In Pilot 2, 13 (of 25) reached 4 weeks, and common reasons for withdrawal by 12 weeks included relapse, loss of contact and no further support wanted. Forty-five (36.3%) validated quits were reported (Pilot 1: 32 of 99 (32.3%); Pilot 2: 13 of 25 (52%)). Facilitators included regular communication and the advisors physically taking e-cigarettes to home visits. Barriers included misalignment between the pilot and the standard treatment offer and availability of the staff resource. Enrolment to both pilots was demonstrated, with greater enrolment in one pilot and notable quit rates among women across both pilots. The perceived role of e-cigarettes for pregnant women varied, and a lack of staff resources explained some challenges. Adaptations may be needed during scale-up, including additional resources and the alignment of the e-cigarette provision to standard treatment.