Health Conditions in Pregnancy: Asthma

If you have asthma, it’s important to continue taking your medicine while pregnant, unless advised otherwise by your doctor. Asthma medications are safe to take.

Around one in three people find their asthma improves while they’re hapū, for one in three it gets worse, and for one in three it stays the same. Everybody reacts differently to pregnancy. Worsening of asthma symptoms most commonly occurs around six months, but it can happen at any time.

If you find your asthma has worsened, it is important to see your doctor who will advise you on the best treatment. If left untreated, uncontrolled asthma may put your pēpi at risk of oxygen deprivation which can result in slow growth, low birth weight, or preterm labour.