Pregnancy and asthma

Background: Asthma is common potentially serious medical problem that affects 4-9% of pregnant women. Increased incidences of preterm labor, low birthweight infants, and deliveries by cesarean section have been reported. In about one third the severity of asthma may improve, worsen, or remain unchanged during pregnancy. In the article we try to highlight the maternal physiological adaptation of respiratory tract to pregnancy, to define the diagnostic strategy for the new patients and to present the recommendations on the management of asthma during pregnancy. Conclusions: Asthma during pregnancy should be well controlled. The management of asthma should follow the stepwise approach according to the level of control. Newly diagnosed asthma should be treated with moderate doses od inhaled glucocorticoides. According to the level of control long acting beta agonists or antileukotrienes should be added. In the case of severe exacerbation repeated and large doses of inhaled beta agonists should be used along with the systemic glucocorticoides and oxygen.