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Asthma and Pregnancy: How to Manage Your Symptoms for a Healthy Baby

Hugo Benalcazar

Medically reviewed by Hugo Benalcazar, Northwestern University on March 5th, 2024.

Key Takeaways

  • Uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy increases the risk of preeclampsia by 54%, premature birth by 71%, and low birth weight by 46% compared to well-controlled cases.
  • Symptoms typically worsen during the second trimester (weeks 13-27) when progesterone levels peak and diaphragm pressure increases from the growing uterus.
  • Short-acting beta-agonists like albuterol are considered Category B medications and safer to use than allowing oxygen levels to drop below 95%, which can harm fetal development.
  • Inhaled corticosteroids such as budesonide have the strongest safety data in pregnancy, with studies showing no increased birth defects in over 2,000 exposed pregnancies.
  • Peak flow measurements should be monitored daily—a drop below 80% of personal best indicates worsening control and need for immediate medical attention.

If you have asthma and are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you may be wondering how your condition will affect your baby. The good news is that with proper management, you can have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. In this article, we'll discuss how to control your asthma during pregnancy, which medications are safe to use, and what to expect during labor and breastfeeding.

The Importance of Asthma Control During Pregnancy

Controlling your asthma during pregnancy is crucial for both your health and your baby's health. When your asthma is not well-controlled, your oxygen levels can drop, which means your baby may not get enough oxygen either. This can lead to complications such as:

  • Premature birth

  • Low birth weight

  • Preeclampsia (dangerously high blood pressure during pregnancy)

On the other hand, when your asthma is well-controlled, you lower your risk of these complications and help ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Safe Asthma Medications During Pregnancy

Many women worry about using asthma medications during pregnancy, but the truth is that not controlling your asthma is more harmful to you and your baby than using the right medications. Short-acting medications in your daily use inhaler, such as albuterol, levalbuterol, pirbuterol, and ipratropium, are all safe for both mother and baby.

Asthma and Pregnancy: How to Manage Your Symptoms for a Healthy Baby

It's important to work with your doctor to find the right kind and amount of medication for you to take during pregnancy. Your doctor will consider the severity of your asthma and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Avoiding Asthma Triggers During Pregnancy

In addition to taking your medications as prescribed, avoiding your asthma triggers can help keep your symptoms under control. Common asthma triggers include:

  • Animal dander

  • Dust mites

  • Cockroaches

  • Pollen

  • Indoor mold

Keeping a diary of what makes your asthma worse can help you identify your triggers and find ways to avoid them.

What to Expect During Labor and Breastfeeding

In general, the same asthma treatment that's safe during pregnancy is also safe during labor and breastfeeding. However, it's important to talk to your doctor to make sure your asthma medicine is safe to continue taking in these circumstances.

It's also important to let your allergist know if you're pregnant. If you're already receiving allergy shots, your doctor will probably continue them and monitor you for any problems. However, you shouldn't start allergy shots if you're pregnant.

The Bottom Line

Having asthma doesn't mean you can't have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. By working with your doctor to control your asthma, avoiding triggers, and using safe medications, you can manage your symptoms and reduce your risk of complications. Remember, good asthma control is the key to a successful pregnancy.

For more information on managing asthma during pregnancy, check out these resources:

The Bottom Line

Well-controlled asthma poses far less risk to mother and baby than untreated symptoms, making continued medication use essential throughout pregnancy. The key is working with your healthcare team to adjust dosages and monitor symptoms closely, especially during the second trimester when flare-ups are most common. If you're experiencing worsening breathing difficulties or have questions about medication safety during pregnancy, Doctronic can provide quick answers and guidance.

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