Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a condition that causes the airways to narrow, swell, and produce excess mucus, making it hard to breathe.

Asthma can affect anyone, including women who are trying to conceive. It can impact fertility, pregnancy, and the health of both the mother and the baby.

In this article, we will discuss the impact of asthma on getting pregnant and how women with asthma can have a healthy pregnancy.

How Asthma Affects Fertility

Asthma can affect fertility in different ways. For instance, the medications used to manage asthma symptoms can impact fertility. Some of the medications used to treat asthma have been linked to reduced fertility in women.

These medications can disrupt the hormonal balance, which is necessary for ovulation and pregnancy.

Also, women who have severe asthma may have difficulty conceiving. A study conducted at the University of Adelaide found that women who have uncontrolled asthma are less likely to get pregnant than women with well-controlled asthma or no asthma.

This suggests that well-controlled asthma is essential for optimal fertility outcomes.

Risks of Asthma During Pregnancy

Women with asthma who become pregnant may face some challenges. Pregnancy is a time when a woman’s body undergoes numerous changes, which can put additional strain on the respiratory system. Here are some of the risks of asthma during pregnancy:.

Increased Risk of Complications

Women with poorly controlled asthma have a higher risk of complications during pregnancy than women with well-controlled asthma. These complications can include low birth weight, preterm labor, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes.

Risk of Asthma Attacks

During pregnancy, there is an increased risk of asthma attacks. Uncontrolled asthma can cause breathing difficulties, which can impact the oxygen supply to the baby.

Effect of Asthma Medications on Pregnancy

The medications used to manage asthma symptoms during pregnancy can also impact the health of the baby. Some of these medications can increase the risk of birth defects, but the risk is generally low.

However, it is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the right medication for your asthma that is safe during pregnancy.

How to Manage Asthma During Pregnancy

Managing asthma during pregnancy is essential for the health of both the mother and the baby. Here are some tips to help keep asthma under control:.

Take Asthma Medications as Prescribed

It is essential to take asthma medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider. These medications can help manage asthma symptoms and reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy.

Avoid Triggers

Avoiding asthma triggers is crucial during pregnancy. Common asthma triggers include allergens, smoke, dust, pollution, and strong odors. Women with asthma should avoid exposure to these triggers as much as possible.

Stay Active

Exercise is essential for everyone, including expectant mothers with asthma. Regular physical activity can help manage asthma symptoms, reduce stress, and improve overall health.

However, it is essential to speak with your healthcare provider before starting an exercise regimen during pregnancy.

Use an Asthma Action Plan

An asthma action plan is a written plan that outlines what to do when asthma symptoms occur. Pregnant women with asthma should have an asthma action plan and share it with their healthcare providers and family members.

This plan can help manage asthma symptoms and reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Asthma can impact fertility, pregnancy, and the health of both the mother and the baby.

Women with asthma who are planning to conceive or are already pregnant should work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their asthma symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. By taking the right steps and following a good asthma management plan, women with asthma can have a healthy pregnancy and deliver healthy babies.