Congratulations!
Plan ahead and make changes now so that you can have a healthy pregnancy. Good asthma control is always important. Now that you are having a baby, it is even more important.
You and Your Provider
Asthma can be risky to you and your baby if it is not under control. You are now breathing for two. Make regular visits to your provider for prenatal and asthma care. You and your provider can work together to come up with an asthma action plan. This plan will help you handle asthma attacks during pregnancy.
Your Medicine
Discuss with your provider all the medicine you take. This might include medicine you buy at the store, vitamins and herbs. If you plan to breastfeed your baby, take only the medicines your provider tells you to take.
What makes asthma worse during pregnancy?
What Makes Asthma Worse During Pregnancy
- Smoke from cigarettes and fireplaces
- Dust mites in the home
- Animal dander
- Cockroaches
- Pollen
- Mold and mildew
- Strong odors, such as paint, perfumes, and household cleaners
- Colds or the flu
- Exercise
- Mood swings
- Weather changes
- Acid reflux
When you are pregnant, your body's hormones change. Each person reacts differently to these changes. Your asthma may worsen, improve, or stay the same while you are pregnant.
Asthma Control during Labor and Delivery
It is important to continue your long-term control medicine when you are in labor and as you are having your baby. Have your quick-relief medicine on hand. Keeping your asthma in control will lessen asthma problems during labor and delivery. Wheezing during labor and delivery is rare. If you choose to use Lamaze breathing methods, you should know that most women with asthma are able to use these methods with hardly any problems.