byAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology

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Many pregnant women experience allergies, asthma, or reactions to medications—conditions that can affect both mother and baby if not carefully managed. Yet new research presented at the2025 American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meetingsuggests a reluctance among obstetricians to refer their pregnant patients to allergy specialists, even when a referral could help improve care. The research will also appear inAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology.

The study surveyed obstetricians at a large academic medical center. It found that while nearly all the doctors cared for pregnant patients in both clinics and hospitals, about one in four never referred a patient to an allergist, and almost half referred only once a year.

Referrals most often happened for suspecteddrug allergies, followed by hives (urticaria) andasthma. Many of the obstetricians surveyed said they didn't always know when to refer to a specialist, and others cited long wait times for appointments as a barrier. Most said they wanted clearer guidelines and more education about managing allergies in pregnancy.

"Pregnancy can change how a woman's immune system reacts to allergies or asthma," said Miriam Al-Saedy, MD, Internal Medicine resident, lead author of the study and ACAAI member. "An allergist can help confirm true allergies, guide safe medication use, and create a care plan that supports both maternal and fetal health."

Says allergist Kelly Colas, DO, Ph.D., co-author of the study and ACAAI member, "If you're pregnant and living with allergies, asthma, or a past allergic reaction to a drug, you should talk to yourobstetricianabout whether seeing an allergist might help." Dr. Colas says anallergistcan:

"Allergy and immunology care inpregnancyis safe and can make a real difference in how women feel," said Dr. Al-Saedy. "Don't hesitate to ask for a referral if you think you need one."

More information: Barriers to Allergy and Immunology Referral in Pregnancy: A Survey of Obstetric Physicians, Annals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology (2025).

Provided by American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology