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Is Giving Birth With Bronchitis Dangerous?

Bronchitis is a serious condition that can be even more stressful to pregnant women, as there is fear that the baby can be harmed. Currently, there is no medication available to treat the source of bronchitis, but rather to treat its symptoms. If a pregnant woman suspects that she is developing bronchitis, she must see a doctor immediately. Risks to the baby can develop during birth if the bronchitis is still present in the mother at that time.

  1. The Facts

    • Air is breathed into the lungs through the bronchial tubes. Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes become inflamed, making them swell and become painful. Bacteria, viruses, smoking tobacco and inhaling chemicals are all causes of bronchitis. Women are the most prone to getting bronchitis, as well as those who reside in the southern United States.

    Significance

    • Bronchitis comes with a plethora of annoying symptoms, such as cough, fever, sore throat and chills. These symptoms are not harmful to a fetus, but can be harmful during the baby's birth. In addition, taking medications to relieve symptoms, whether prescribed or over-the-counter, can harm an unborn baby.

    Relief

    • There is no medical cure for bronchitis. However, there are a few medicinal treatment options that can help relieve the symptoms of bronchitis. Such medications include antibiotics, bronchodilators, corticosteroids and expectorants. These drugs are exclusively obtained through a doctor; therefore a pregnant woman should see her OB/GYN to discuss these options. In some cases, such drugs can harm the baby, so they will not be recommended. A few treatment options that can be done without the usage of drugs include the usage of a humidifier, taking hot showers and inhaling the warm steam, drinking cool water, and drinking hot tea.

    Prevention/Solution

    • If a pregnant woman is smoking, she should stop immediately for her unborn baby's sake. Also, smoking accounts for about 80% of chronic bronchitis incidents, so quitting will reduce one's chances of developing the condition. There are several ways for non-smokers to prevent themselves from contracting bronchitis as well. First, practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently, showering daily, avoid touching the face with unclean hands, and disinfecting common household items. Also, avoid individuals who are ill.

    Warning

    • A common cough or cold can lead to bronchitis in pregnant women, as their immune systems may be more vulnerable. As soon as a pregnant woman becomes ill, she should consult her doctor. A fetus will not contract bronchitis from its mother. However, a woman who gives birth while she has bronchitis may then harm her baby. First, the baby has an increased risk of contracting bronchitis from the mother now that he is out of the womb. Fever can also be associated with bronchitis; some studies show that a woman who gives birth while having a fever above 102 degrees Fahrenheit may have the risk of having a baby with abnormalities.

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