 Pregnancy
& Asthma
If your asthma is well controlled, asthma problems during your
pregnancy are unlikely. Some women find that their asthma improves, and
some remain unchanged. Those whose asthma does get a little worse can be
helped with good asthma management; you need to consult with your doctor
regularly. Here are the most important points to remember.
- It is common to experience some breathlessness
near the end of your pregnancy - this is related to
the size of the baby and the pressure it puts on
your diaphragm. A normal delivery is usual. If you
have severe asthma, your doctor will discuss
caesarian section delivery with you. The rate of
caesarians among women with asthma is no higher than
in those without it.
- Medications for asthma have been shown to be
extremely safe for both the mother and the
developing baby. It is more dangerous to have
untreated asthma during pregnancy than to continue
with your prescribed asthma medications. Asthma
symptoms may reduce the amount of oxygen available
to the baby. Follow your Asthma Action Plan very
carefully for the best asthma control.
- Although asthma medications do enter breast milk,
the concentrations are usually extremely small and
do not have any adverse effect on the baby. Your
doctor can advise you on breastfeeding.
- If there is a strong history of allergic illness
in your family, you should discuss this with your
doctor. Extra care may be needed to avoid triggering
asthma attacks. For example, if you have a possible
food allergy, you may have to watch what foods you
eat. You may need to deal with suspected allergens
in your home, such as indoor pets, house dust mites
in soft furnishings and carpets, or particular
plants in the garden. They can influence the
probability of your baby developing persistent
wheezing. Your doctor can give you an information
sheet and advice on allergens and other asthma
triggers.
- Cigarette smoking should be avoided during your
pregnancy. It increases the chances of wheezing in
the newborn, as well as having other harmful
effects. Ask your doctor and/or pharmacist to help
you give up or reduce your smoking, or the smoking
of those around you.
- You need to monitor your peak flow and visit your
doctor regularly. Your doctor will make sure your
asthma is being well managed.
For more information and support, contact your
local Asthma Foundation on 1800 645 130.
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