Guideline for Managing Asthma during Pregnancy

New Guideline Provides Clear Advice for Women with Asthma During Pregnancy

Women with asthma face an increased risk of worsening asthma control during pregnancy, affecting more than 30 percent of this group. To address this issue, the Dutch Association of Physicians for Pulmonary Diseases and Tuberculosis (NVALT) has taken the initiative to develop a new guideline in collaboration with the Federation of Medical Specialists (FMS). The guideline aims to provide women with the right care and ensure unambiguous advice regarding the safe use of medication during pregnancy.

The new guideline, which can be utilized by healthcare providers, covers women who are planning to have children, are currently pregnant, or are breastfeeding. It is a multidisciplinary guideline that emphasizes the importance of continuity of care and provides clear recommendations for managing asthma during pregnancy. In addition to addressing medication safety, the guideline also includes information on new medicines for treating more severe forms of asthma.

One of the key aspects highlighted in the guideline is the need for good preconceptual counseling. Women with asthma should receive comprehensive information and guidance before conception to optimize their asthma control during pregnancy. By providing women with unambiguous advice, healthcare providers can help minimize the risk of worsening asthma symptoms and ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

The new guideline also emphasizes the importance of overall health before conception. It encourages women to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding exposure to environmental triggers that may worsen asthma symptoms. By addressing these factors, women can improve their overall health and potentially reduce the impact of asthma on their pregnancy.

The development of this guideline is a significant step forward in ensuring that women with asthma receive the appropriate care and support during pregnancy. By following the recommendations outlined in the guideline, healthcare providers can help women manage their asthma effectively, minimize the risk of complications, and ensure a healthy pregnancy.

The National Care Guide and Johanne Levinsky contributed to this report.

What are the key recommendations provided in the new guideline for managing asthma during pregnancy?

New Guideline Provides Clear Advice for Women with Asthma During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can pose challenges for women with asthma, as it increases the risk of worsening asthma control. In fact, more than 30 percent of women with asthma experience this issue. To address these concerns and provide better care, the Dutch Association of Physicians for Pulmonary Diseases and Tuberculosis (NVALT) has collaborated with the Federation of Medical Specialists (FMS) to develop a new guideline.

This guideline, which is designed for healthcare providers, focuses on women who are planning to have children, are currently pregnant, or are breastfeeding. It is a comprehensive guideline that highlights the significance of continuity of care and offers clear recommendations for managing asthma during pregnancy. Besides discussing medication safety, the guideline also covers information on new medications for treating severe forms of asthma.

One crucial aspect emphasized in the guideline is the need for thorough preconceptual counseling. Women with asthma should receive comprehensive information and guidance before conception to optimize their asthma control during pregnancy. By providing women with clear advice, healthcare providers can help minimize the risk of exacerbating asthma symptoms and ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

The guideline also stresses the importance of overall health before conception. It encourages women to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding environmental triggers that may worsen asthma symptoms. By addressing these factors, women can improve their overall health and potentially reduce the impact of asthma on their pregnancy.

The development of this guideline is a crucial step forward in ensuring that women with asthma receive appropriate care and support during pregnancy. By following the recommendations outlined in the guideline, healthcare providers can assist women in effectively managing their asthma, minimizing complications, and promoting a healthy pregnancy.

This report was made possible with the contribution of The National Care Guide and Johanne Levinsky.