Often times, pregnant woman living with asthma are reluctant to take their asthma medication fearing the medication will be harmful to their baby.
The contrary is true. According to mayoclinic.org, asthma during pregnancy can post health risks for you and your baby.
If you’re effectively treating your asthma and it’s well controlled during pregnancy, there’s little or no risk of asthma-related complications. However, severe or poorly controlled asthma during pregnancy might increase the risk of various problems, including:
- Oxygen deprivation for the baby
- Morning sickness
- Vaginal bleeding
- High blood pressure and protein in the urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy
- Restricted fetal growth
- Complicated labor
- Need for a C-section
- Premature birth
- In extreme cases, the baby’s life might be in jeopardy
Prescribed asthma medication, such as asthma inhalers or allergy shots during pregnancy is strongly recommended since the non-medication alternative is much more likely to harm both yourself and your baby.
Studies regarding the safe use of asthma inhalers and allergy shots, during pregnancy, have shown positive results. With proper treatment the risk of asthma attacks can decrease and your lung function can improve.
In the majority of cases, you and your baby can look forward to a good outcome, so long as you follow your doctor’s instructions. It is very important to monitor your asthma during your pregnancy. At the first signs of breathing difficulty, call your doctor.
By following your doctor’s recommendations, you and your child can look forward to a healthy pregnancy and birth.
If you are pregnant and have asthma, you can schedule an appointment with the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Women’s Health Center at 718-291-3276.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.