Dr. Morice is a low cost tubal reversal surgeon and OB-GYN in Morgan City, LA. When he isn’t performing high success rate tubal reversal surgery, he provides top-notch health and perinatal care. Asthma can cause complications during pregnancy. Two thirds of women with asthma have symptoms that change during pregnancy. One third of women see symptoms improve, one third see symptoms worsen, and one third remain the same. Asthma makes it difficult to breathe, which can deprive both you and your baby of oxygen and lead to serious problems.
What are the effects of asthma during pregnancy?
Uncontrolled asthma can lead to high blood pressure and preeclampsia during pregnancy. It can also lead to a low birth weight, stillbirth, intrauterine growth restriction, and preterm birth. While uncontrolled asthma has serious consequences, it is easy to control your asthma during pregnancy to avoid these serious complications. Therefore, it’s important to work with your OB-GYN to monitor and treat your asthma.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a difficulty in breathing caused by constriction, inflammation, or mucus buildup in the airways. Asthma can have many triggers including allergens (mold, dust mites, animals), stress, exercise, and other factors.
How do I treat my asthma during pregnancy?
Discuss your asthma attack plan with Dr. Morice. Are you currently using inhalers, antihistamines, or other medications to control your asthma? Review these with Dr. Morice. Researchers have found that it’s safer for a woman to use her asthma medications during pregnancy than to risk having an asthma attack. Budesonide, an inhaled steroidal asthma medication, is safe in low doses for a woman and her fetus. It is important to never stop taking asthma medication during pregnancy before discussing those changes with your doctor. It’s also important to avoid asthma triggers. If intense exercise or exposure to cats causes your asthma to worsen, for example, avoid these during pregnancy.
How is asthma managed during pregnancy?
Because one third of women with asthma have symptoms that worsen during pregnancy, it’s important for your doctor to monitor your asthma to see if your medication needs to be adjusted. Your lung function will be monitored to ensure you are getting enough oxygen in your lungs. This will most likely be measured with a spirometer. If your asthma symptoms worsen or are severe, you will need to monitor your baby’s movement every day after 28 weeks. Ultrasounds after 32 weeks will also help check your baby’s development.
Asthma treatment during pregnancy varies with each person. Dr. Morice will review and monitor your asthma to ensure you are taking the right medications. As always, prenatal care is the most important factor in ensuring your baby’s health.
If you need an OB-GYN or are interested in tubal reversal surgery, contact Dr. Morice at (985) 702-BABY or drmorice@mybabydoc.com. We look forward to meeting you!
