Asthma, Allergy and Pregnancy

Congratulations, if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant while you are reading this article! Pregnancy is an important phase of a woman’s life and it should be happy and stress-free for an expecting mother! Here I present some important facts about how a pregnant women with past medical history of asthma and allergies can go on to have a healthy gestational period, labor and delivery!

You can go on to have a healthy pregnancy if you have asthma or allergies.

First and foremost, make an appointment as soon as you find that you are pregnant! A board certified allergist and immunologist can help you guide which asthma and allergy medications are the safest to take throughout pregnancy.

Managing your asthma and allergy symptoms is vital:

Good control of asthma is very important for a healthy mother and baby. Asthma flare or uncontrolled asthma can cause decrease in amount of oxygen in mother’s blood supply which will directly affect the oxygen supply in the fetus. As much as good nutrition is important in pregnancy, similarly, adequate oxygen supply at all times is very important during pregnancy.

Don’t stop taking medications:

Taking necessary asthma medications is very important, infact, more than the harmful effects of asthma exacerbations. Your physician board certified in allergy and immunology can guide you about medications that are safe in pregnancy. It is important to keep up with your follow-up visits during pregnancy for close monitoring and control of your asthma and allergies!

Pregnancy and Allergy Shots:

Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots) are generally safe during pregnancy, however, we usually continue the maintenance dose and do not increase the dose if you are on “build-up” phase of allergy shots. At The Allergy Group, we usually do not start allergy shots if a female of child bearing age is planning to conceive within the next 6 months.

Breastfeeding, Asthma and Allergy:

Breastfeeding is essential to strengthen the immune system of your child and hence, it’s strongly advised. Generally, medications for asthma and allergy that are safe during pregnancy should be risk-free during breast feeding. However, it is best to consult with your allergist to possibly recommend you various other medication regimens that are safer while nursing, than they were during pregnancy.

The Allergy Group – Friendly, capable and experienced

Our team of physicians and healthcare professionals at The Allergy Group are highly experienced and trained to provide you with the best care. We are committed to your personal healthcare. Have a happy healthy pregnancy. Call 208-377-4000 today or use our online form to schedule an appointment.