Asthma and Pregnancy
Peter Weiss, M.D.

Being an asthmatic in pregnancy does put you at a higher risk, however, this risk can be greatly reduced if your asthma is controlled and you are followed by an internist as well as your obstetrician. Well-controlled asthma has only a minimal effect on pregnancy, while pregnancy, itself, may affect your asthma. In about one-third of pregnant women, their asthma improves! In another third, it worsens. And, in the last third, there is no change. The key to a good outcome includes: • Keeping your asthma under control • Avoid things which aggravate your asthma, such as smoke, pollen, dust, etc. • Also, if at all possible, avoid getting a cold. If you start having an asthmatic attack, call your doctor immediately, and take only drugs prescribed by your physician. If you take good care of yourself, and your asthma, you should have an easy pregnancy. If you have any concerns, call your doctor. Preventing any problems is the goal to a normal, healthy pregnancy.


Peter Weiss is a Beverly Hills-based obstetrician/gynecologist and leading advocate for mother's-to-be. A member of the Royal Society of Medicine and an assictant clinical professor at the UCLA School of Medicine, Dr. Weiss' writing have appeared in numerous parenting publications nationwide.