Developing bronchitis while pregnant is unlikely to harm your fetus, but serious complications are possible.

If you’re pregnant and you have symptoms of bronchitis, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider.

This article goes over the symptoms, causes, and potential complications of bronchitis while pregnant.

pregnant person coughing

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Viral infections can disrupt this balance by causing changes in inflammation, immune cells, and more.

Secondary bacterialpneumoniais a common complication of bronchitis.

It occurs in roughly .5 to 1 out of every one thousand pregnancies.

Not all women are at the same risk.

When diagnosed early, pneumonia during pregnancy is generally treatable.

While very uncommon, ARDS in pregnant women can be very serious or lead to death.

It is more common toward the end of pregnancy.

It’s important to remember that many medications are not safe to use during pregnancy.

If your healthcare provider determines that you have a bacterial infection, they may prescribe antibiotics.

In addition, women who develop symptoms of influenza or COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider.

Getting vaccinated not only helps you, but can help your developing baby.

ensure your obstetrician is aware of your past medical history.

Summary

In most pregnant people with bronchitis, the infection resolves without complications.

It is possible, however, to develop bronchitis-related problems such as pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Premature labor or pregnancy loss are also possible.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chest cold (acute bronchitis) basics.

Kinkade S, Long NA.Acute bronchitis.Am Fam Physician.

2022;85(Pt A):26-33. doi:10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.07.001.

2021;25(Suppl 3):S241-S247.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Flu and pregnant women.