Asthma in pregnancy and lactation

This position statement was developed as a consensus view between the two authors and was subsequently reviewed by the Education and Research Sub-Committee of the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand, whose membership comprises six respiratory physicians with a broad range of interests in research and clinical respiratory medicine. This Committee also sought the opinion of an external reviewer with expertise in the subject. The following conclusions were reached: Physiological changes which occur during pregnancy may affect asthma control. Regular monitoring (monthly or every six weeks) of asthmatic women should occur throughout pregnancy. Regular therapy, including the use of inhaled steroids, is recommended. Well-controlled asthma should have no adverse effects on pregnancy, labour or breastfeeding. Medicines used to control asthma carry less risk to the mother and baby than a severe attack of asthma. Good asthma management will result in a birth outcome similar to that experienced by women without asthma.