Asthma and Pregnancy
Asthma is one of the most common medical conditions during pregnancy, and its impact can vary widely. While well-controlled asthma generally poses little to no risk to the mother or baby, uncontrolled or poorly managed asthma during pregnancy can lead to significant complications for both.
Here's a breakdown of the risks:
Risks for the Mother:
Increased Asthma Exacerbations (Attacks): Pregnancy can affect asthma symptoms in unpredictable ways. About one-third of pregnant women with asthma experience worsening symptoms, one-third experience no change, and one-third experience improvement. However, severe asthma or non-adherence to medication increases the risk of attacks.
Reduced Oxygen Levels: During an asthma attack, the mother's oxygen levels can drop. Since the baby gets all its oxygen from the mother's blood, this can lead to decreased oxygen supply to the fetus.
Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension and Preeclampsia: Uncontrolled asthma is associated with a higher risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy (pregnancy-induced hypertension) and preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage (like the kidneys).
Premature Delivery/Preterm Labor: There's a small increased risk of preterm labor and delivery (before 37 weeks) if asthma is not well-controlled.
Cesarean Delivery: Some studies suggest a slightly increased likelihood of needing a C-section.
Respiratory Failure: In severe, uncontrolled cases, respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation can occur, though this is rare.
Complications from Steroid Use: While inhaled corticosteroids are generally safe, sustained use of oral corticosteroids (sometimes needed for severe exacerbations) can be associated with risks like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
Risks for the Baby:
Premature Birth: As mentioned, uncontrolled asthma can increase the risk of the baby being born too early. Premature babies are at higher risk for various health problems, including breathing difficulties and long-term disabilities.
Low Birth Weight / Small for Gestational Age: Babies born to mothers with uncontrolled asthma may be smaller than expected for their gestational age or have a low birth weight (less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces). This is often due to reduced oxygen and nutrient supply from the mother.
Congenital Abnormalities: Some research suggests a slightly increased risk of certain congenital abnormalities (like heart defects or cleft lip) in babies whose mothers experienced severe asthma symptoms during pregnancy, though the direct causal link is still being investigated.
Increased Risk of Childhood Asthma and Other Respiratory Issues: Children born to mothers with uncontrolled asthma are at a higher risk of developing asthma and other respiratory problems (like pneumonia) in early childhood.
Neonatal Hypoglycemia and Seizures: In rare cases, uncontrolled asthma can lead to low blood sugar and seizures in the infant.
Why is control so important?
The developing baby relies entirely on the mother for oxygen. Any significant drop in the mother's oxygen levels due to an asthma attack directly impacts the baby's oxygen supply, potentially leading to the complications listed above.
Key takeaway for pregnant women with asthma:
It is crucial to keep your asthma well-controlled throughout your pregnancy.
Do NOT stop taking your prescribed asthma medications without consulting your doctor. The risks of uncontrolled asthma are much greater than the risks associated with most asthma medications (especially inhaled corticosteroids, which are generally considered safe during pregnancy).
Work closely with your healthcare team (obstetrician, allergist/pulmonologist) to develop and follow an asthma action plan. This includes regular monitoring, avoiding triggers, and knowing what to do in case of worsening symptoms or an attack.
Get recommended vaccinations as respiratory infections can trigger asthma exacerbations.
By actively managing asthma, most pregnant women with asthma can have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. Questions? Call us 954-998-5864 or visit our site to make an appointment.