asthma deterioration

Before I had a baby my asthma was well controlled now it is the worse it has ever been, I have even increased my serotide inhaler and it hasn't made a difference, any suggestions?

[National Jewish Health]

Pregnancy can be associated with either worsening or improvement of one's asthma, in both instances deemed to be related to hormonal changes.  Whether better or worse during pregnancy, asthma usually returns to the pre-pregnancy level, shortly after delivery.  Given the relationship to hormonal levels, it is conceivable that breast feeding, as it influences these levels, could perpetuate worsening of asthma post-partum.  I looked for and could find no evidence to support this, but if you are breast feeding, it would be most interesting to see what happens with the asthma, when you stop.

In the meantime, you should consult with your doctor about additional asthma therapy.  You will almost certainly require the use of an inhaled steroid to bring your asthma under control.