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Home › Articles › Health and Physical Changes › Asthma Attacks and Pregnancy

Asthma Attacks and Pregnancy

Could Asthma Attacks During the First Trimester Put Baby at Risk?

By Teri Brown

Pages:  1  2  3  

Dr. Chui says that changes in asthma symptoms during pregnancy is not unusual. "Pregnancy can influence asthma control in three ways," Dr. Chui says. "We actually refer to it as the 'Rule of 3's.' In one-third of pregnant asthmatics, the asthma stays the same, in one-third the asthma gets worse and in one-third the asthma gets better. The asthma control can vary even in subsequent pregnancies."

Controlling Asthma During Pregnancy

According to Dr. Chui, pregnant women with asthma should continue their controller medications as prescribed by their physicians and try to avoid any known triggers for their asthma.

"If Mom has asthma, she should make sure to talk to her physicians and take the medications as prescribed," Dr. Chui says. "There are safe and effective medications to use during pregnancy, and it is very important for the asthma to be in good control – for both Mom's health and the baby's development. By avoiding asthma exacerbations/flare ups, the risk of congenital malformations is greatly reduced."

Having asthma does not mean that you can't have a healthy child, but you do need to have open communication with your primary care physician. As during any pregnancy, taking care of yourself is key to having a healthy baby.

Tips for Mothers with Asthma
  • Remember that asthma may worsen during pregnancy.
  • Discuss your asthma medications with your doctor. He may want you to try an alternative medication.
  • Good prenatal care is important. Make sure you see your primary care provider and/or asthma specialist regularly, especially if you are having an increase in asthma symptoms.
  • It is important to have your emergency asthma medicine with you at all times. That way you can stave off an attack as quickly as possible.


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