Management of asthma in pregnancy

Asthma is the most common chronic disease to affect pregnant women and can have a significant effect on pregnancy outcomes, with increased rates of preterm birth, premature delivery and caesarean section observed if poorly controlled. Pregnancy can also influence asthma control. Prescribing in pregnancy causes anxiety for patients and healthcare professionals and can result in alteration or undertreatment of asthma. Good asthma control with prompt and adequate management of exacerbations is key to reducing adverse pregnancy outcomes for both mother and fetus. The majority of asthma treatment can be continued as normal in pregnancy and there is emerging evidence of the safety of biologic medications also. This article aims to summarise the current evidence about asthma in pregnancy and guide the appropriate management of this population.