Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Numerous factors may influence the asthma course during pregnancy, potentially elevating the risk of specific pregnancy complications. This study aimed to evaluate non-allergic factors influencing asthma and to assess perinatal outcomes between asthmatic and non-asthmatic pregnancies in the population of the Pomeranian Voivodeship region of Poland. METHODS: The mixed cohort study was performed with 83 pregnant asthmatic patients aged 18-38 years. The control group consisted of 83 patients without asthma diagnosis or symptoms. A specially designed questionnaire was used to evaluate asthma course and perinatal outcomes. An Asthma Control Test (ACT) adapted for pregnancy was performed on enrollment. Asthma severity was assessed according to GINA guidelines. RESULTS: In 19 cases (22.80%), patients quit their regular treatment after pregnancy was confirmed. Respiratory tract infection occurred in 23 patients (27.71%) and had been statistically significantly more frequent among patients with partially and uncontrolled asthma (χ(2)=8.504, p<0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between infection episodes and perinatal complications. The incidence of cesarean section was significantly higher among patients with asthma (χ(2)=16.37, p<0.01), particularly in patients with severe asthma (χ(2)=7.07, p<0.05) and uncontrolled asthma (χ(2)=6.7, p<0.05). Apgar score was statistically significantly lower in patients with severe asthma (χ(2)=20.37, p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Respiratory tract infections and adequate asthma treatment are the most important modifiable factors in preventing perinatal complications associated with asthma.