Midwifery management of asthma and allergies during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum

Abstract

Asthma and allergies can cause serious complications during pregnancy and often they are misdiagosed or mistreated. Anna Nolte, Marie Hastings-Tolsma and Flavia Hoyte look at ways nurses and midwives can recognise the symptoms quicker Asthma and allergic rhinitis are two of the most common health problems worldwide and can present serious complication during pregnancy. While these diseases may improve, remain unchanged, or become exacerbated during pregnancy, they are frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. The inflammatory processes involved in asthma and allergic rhinitis are superimposed on the normal respiratory changes of pregnancy, making early intervention crucial. Recognition of factors that can aggravate asthma, implementation and adherence to treatment guidelines, and diligent follow-up are important in midwifery management. Patient education is particularly important for prevention of asthma exacerbations. With careful control of asthma and allergic rhinitis, if present, excellent obstetric outcomes can be expected.