Most medications prescribed to control asthma are safe for pregnant women to take, and the risks of uncontrolled asthma in pregnant women appear to be greater than the risks of necessary asthma medications. Medications administered with inhalers generally are considered better for pregnant women than oral medications because inhaled medications go straight to the lungs and are less likely to get passed along to the fetus. In more serious cases, oral medications may be necessary to control symptoms of asthma. Women should ask the healthcare provider treating their asthma to consult with their obstetrician before developing a treatment plan.
Women may not need to stop taking asthma medication during pregnancy. Most medications that are used for mild to moderate asthma are safe in pregnancy. Inhaled medications are almost always safe, and should be continued. If a woman has severe asthma and uses medications by mouth, she should talk with her doctor before becoming pregnant or as soon as pregnancy is discovered.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.