Maternal asthma: Management strategies

Abstract

Asthma in pregnancy is common, and its prevalence is rising. Internists need to be aware of the effects of maternal asthma control on the health of the expectant mother and the baby. With the ever-present worry about medication use and teratogenicity in pregnant women, these patients are often undertreated for their asthma. This review focuses on effects of uncontrolled maternal asthma as well as appropriate management of maternal asthma in the outpatient setting and during exacerbations.