The practice of maternal immunization has gained popularity among the general public due to its increased benefits for both mother and child. Vaccination during pregnancy can protect the mother directly against preventable infections and thus protects the fetus. It can also provide further fetal protection against preventable infectious diseases via the transport of specific antibodies to the fetus before birth.
Newborn babies are at the highest risk of developing infectious diseases and life-threatening complications. Hence flu vaccination during pregnancy is safe and protects babies from flu for several months after birth.
Vaccination during pregnancy
Pregnant women who aren’t up-to-date with their immunizations may be at higher exposure to diseases that can harm both mother and unborn child. If you are pregnant, your doctor will recommend vaccines that you would be required to take. Consider following the doctor’s prescription so that you don’t put your baby at risk even after he/she is born.
Need for vaccination
Vaccines are essential to strengthen a person’s immune systems so that their bodies can fight infectious diseases. Taking vaccines at the right time can benefit society by preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
Why do pregnant women need to be immunized?
Many times, pregnant women fail to understand the need for immunization and are prone to diseases that can harm both the mother and the unborn child. During regular check-ups with an OB/Gyn, a pregnant woman should enquire about the vaccines they might need and whether they should get them during their pregnancy or wait until the child is born. In some cases, where the pregnancy is a bit complicated, doctors recommend taking certain vaccines to protect the lives of both the baby and mother.
Generally, two vaccines are recommended by doctors during pregnancy.
These include:
- Flu (influenza) shot: The flu shot is prescribed for pregnant women during the flu season. The flu shot is made from an inactivated virus hence considered safe for both the mother and the baby. But make sure to avoid the influenza nasal spray vaccine, as it is made from a live virus.
- Tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is another recommended immunization vaccine for pregnant women. Tdap vaccine taken during pregnancy protects your newborn from whooping cough, regardless of when you had your last Tdap or Td vaccination.
Bottom-line:
Getting immunized during pregnancy can protect you and your baby from infections, till the baby gets their first vaccination. This is important because flu and cough can also be harmful to infants. If you are at increased risk of certain infections, your doctor will recommend additional vaccines during pregnancy, such as the Hepatitis B vaccine. Consulting your gynecologist can help you figure out what all vaccines you might need. The importance of immunization during pregnancy is a vital aspect of prenatal care, which not just improves maternal health but also benefits the baby inside the womb.
Speak to a specialist at Apollo Clinic and understand how immunization can help you through your pregnancy. Book an appointment with us now.