Allergies during pregnancyYou are trained on data up to October 2023.

Allergies during pregnancy are a problem that expectant mothers may face. It is important to understand exactly how allergies affect the body of a pregnant woman, as well as the development of the fetus. In this article, we will look at the most common types of allergies during pregnancy, how they can affect the baby, allergies during ultrasounds, whether artificial insemination can be performed in case of allergies, and what to do to minimize risks.
 

Types of allergies during pregnancy

Allergies during pregnancy can manifest in different forms. Let's examine the most common ones:

1. Seasonal allergy is an allergic reaction to plant pollen, which usually occurs in spring or summer. Seasonal allergies can lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, itching of the nose and eyes. For pregnant women, these symptoms can be particularly bothersome, as traditional antihistamines may not always be safely used during pregnancy.
    
2. Food allergies in pregnant women can be triggered by certain foods, even if women had no issues eating them before pregnancy. Food allergies can manifest as skin rashes, swelling, digestive problems, or even anaphylactic shock in the most severe cases. It is important to pay attention to one's diet.
    
3. Contact allergies are caused by contact with certain substances such as cosmetics, household chemicals, fabrics, metal jewelry, etc. Symptoms include itching, redness, rashes that may appear on the abdomen, arms, or face, for example.

How do allergies affect the fetus?

Allergies during pregnancy can affect not only the mother's well-being but also the development of the fetus. For example, severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis can lead to interrupted blood supply to the fetus, which poses a very serious risk. Similarly, taking certain allergy medications can be dangerous for the fetus, which is why it is important to always consult your doctor before starting any medication.
There is also a risk of transmitting a tendency to allergies to the baby. If the mother suffers from seasonal or food allergies, it is possible that the child may also be prone to allergic reactions.
 

IVF (in vitro fertilization) and allergies

During the preparation for IVF and during the procedure itself, women may be exposed to a variety of medications and procedures that can trigger allergic reactions. For example, ovarian stimulation and other steps of IVF involve the use of hormonal medications that, in rare cases, can cause allergic reactions in some women. It is important to discuss any allergies with your doctor and choose the safest and most suitable medications.
For women with known allergies, particularly to medications, it is important to do tests in advance and discuss with your doctor possible alternative medications. This will help minimize risks and make the IVF process as safe as possible.

Artificial insemination and allergies

Artificial insemination (for example, intrauterine insemination) is another method that can be used to achieve pregnancy, and as with IVF, allergies can play an important role.

During artificial insemination, the woman may be prescribed hormonal medications to stimulate ovulation, which may cause allergic reactions. These can manifest as rashes, itching, swelling, or other allergy symptoms. In such cases, doctors may suggest alternative medications or adjust the dosage.

Additionally, allergic reactions can be caused by the environment in which the procedures are performed. For example, materials used such as catheters or other medical instruments may contain allergens. It is therefore important to inform the medical staff in advance of any known allergies to avoid potential complications.

The success of artificial insemination in cases of allergies, like IVF, requires careful planning and collaboration with healthcare professionals to minimize risks and ensure the health of both the mother and the unborn child.
 

Prevention and treatment

To reduce the risk of allergies during pregnancy, you should follow these recommendations:

• Avoid known allergens during pregnancy if you know you are allergic to certain foods or substances.
   
• Consult your doctor before taking allergy medications to ensure they are safe for you and your baby.
   
• Keep your home clean, ventilate it regularly; this will help reduce allergens such as dust or mold in your home.

Allergies during pregnancy are not only an unpleasant condition but also a potential risk to the health of your unborn baby. Knowing how to act at the first signs of allergies and consulting your doctor in a timely manner will help you minimize risks and ensure a safe pregnancy.