Asthma can greatly affect pregnant women, even those who have never had it before. Asthma attacks can cut off oxygen not only from the mother but from the fetus too. If left unchecked, this lack of oxygen can lead to abnormally slow growth of the fetus, premature birth, low birth weight and even the baby’s death immediately before or after birth.

If asthma is properly managed, there is very little risk to the fetus. Pregnant women with asthma can deal with it the same way non-pregnant women with asthma do: using an asthma management plan and sticking to it.

In general, inhalants are better for use during pregnancy, since they send the medicine directly to the lungs which does not reach the fetus. Oral medications are more risky since they are delivered through the blood. Blood circulates throughout the body and the fetus absorbs nutrients from it, so there is a chance that the medicine might affect the fetus as well. Unless absolutely necessary to control asthma, it is better to not take oral medication.

Pregnant women with asthma should regularly stay in contact with their doctor and allergist, to ensure that the pregnancy goes smoothly.