BRONCHIAL ASTHMA DURING PREGNANCY: PHYSIOTHERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES FOR MATERNAL AND FETAL HEALTH

Abstract

Introduction: Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that can significantly impact the health of pregnant women during gestation, delivery, and the postpartum period. The high prevalence of asthma among pregnant women and the risks associated with asthma attacks during pregnancy justify the need for special attention and specific therapeutic interventions for this group. The objective of this literature review was to analyze the reality faced by pregnant women with asthma and to evaluate the options of physiotherapeutic interventions in managing respiratory symptoms during pregnancy, as well as in supporting delivery and the postpartum period. Methodology: This study is an integrative literature review. The electronic databases used were PubMed, SciELO, and BVS. Studies published in Portuguese and English that addressed physiotherapeutic interventions in pregnant asthmatic women were included. Studies that did not present clear results or that were narrative reviews were excluded. The data were analyzed qualitatively, highlighting the physiotherapeutic interventions that demonstrated the greatest efficacy. The main results were discussed in light of the existing literature, highlighting clinical implications and suggesting directions for future research. Results: The main interventions identified were breathing exercises, controlled physical exercises, the use of positive expiratory pressure devices, and relaxation techniques. The studies showed that these interventions contributed to improved lung function, reduced dyspnea, and relief of musculoskeletal pain associated with pregnancy. Additionally, there was a decrease in the frequency of asthma attacks and an improved quality of life reported by the pregnant women. The results indicated that physiotherapeutic interventions were effective in managing asthma in pregnant women, significantly contributing to respiratory health and overall well-being. Regular practice of breathing and physical exercises helped increase lung capacity and respiratory efficiency, while relaxation techniques reduced stress and anxiety, factors that can trigger asthma attacks. The use of positive expiratory pressure devices was beneficial in improving pulmonary ventilation and reducing secretion retention. Conclusion: We can conclude that physiotherapeutic interventions not only improve respiratory function and reduce the frequency of asthma attacks but also promote a smoother delivery and a more comfortable postpartum period. Future studies should continue to explore new interventions and improve existing ones, always aiming to enhance the quality of life of these patients.