Overview
In this section we discuss key aspects of maternity care, including antenatal models of care, labour and birth planning and the importance of breastfeeding for women with asthma in pregnancy.
Key Messages
- Women with asthma in pregnancy should have their asthma reviewed every 4-6 weeks during pregnancy
- Pregnancy and asthma care may be provided by a range of health professionals including general practitioners, midwives, nurses, obstetricians, physicians and allied health staff.
- Good communication between health professionals involved in the woman’s care is recommended
- Exacerbations of asthma are uncommon during labour and birth
- Except in the most severe cases, asthma should not preclude a vaginal birth
- Prostaglandin E2 and oxytocin can be used for induction of labour, as there is no evidence of increased risk of bronchoconstriction
- Breastfeeding is recommended for all women with asthma