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Vaccination helps:
- Build your immunity before pregnancy begins
- Reduce the chance of serious illness during pregnancy
- Your body can give your baby tiny fighters called antibodies. These help protect them from getting sick after they’re born.
- Prevent disease transmission to the newborn
Coadministration of Vaccines - What You Need to Know
You may need more than one vaccine before or during pregnancy. Some vaccines, like influenza, pertussis (dTpa), and RSV, may be recommended together. These can be given during different trimesters or even on the same day.Important points:
- Vaccines can be coadministered if needed
- They should be given at different injection sites
- This improves convenience without compromising safety or effectiveness
- Speak to your doctor for proper scheduling and guidance
Vaccines to Consider Before Pregnancy
1. Rubella (German Measles)
- Rubella infection during pregnancy can cause miscarriage or congenital rubella syndrome.
- A simple MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine before pregnancy can prevent this.
- It’s a live vaccine, so wait at least 28 days before trying to conceive.
2. Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Getting chickenpox while pregnant isn’t just a mild illness; it can lead to serious complications for both you and your baby.
- If you’ve never had chickenpox, vaccination is recommended.
- Wait at least 28 days after vaccination before trying to conceive.
3. Hepatitis B
- If a parent has hepatitis B, the baby can get it during birth; vaccination helps protect them.
- It's a safe and inactive vaccine.
- Completing the full 3-dose series offers long-term protection.
4. COVID-19
- Pregnancy does make you more vulnerable to COVID-19, but with the right precautions, you can stay safe.
- Vaccination before pregnancy helps ensure protection throughout.
- It’s safe to get an mRNA vaccine before or during pregnancy; it helps protect you and your baby.
5. Measles and Mumps (MMR)
- These infections can cause severe complications like miscarriage or premature labour.
- If your immunity status is unclear, a serology test can determine your antibody levels.
The Role of Serological Testing
If you’re not sure about your past vaccinations or infections, serological testing can help.It checks for immunity against:
- Rubella
- Measles
- Mumps
- Hepatitis B
Pre-Vaccination Screening: Important for You
Before receiving any vaccines:- If you might be pregnant, tell your doctor before doing anything else.
- Avoid live vaccines if there’s a possibility of pregnancy.
- If you receive a live vaccine, wait 28 days before trying to conceive.
Vaccines Not Recommended Before or During Pregnancy
Avoid the following unless absolutely necessary or advised by a doctor:- Live vaccines like MMR or varicella during pregnancy
- HPV vaccine once pregnancy is confirmed
- Travel-related vaccines are not required for domestic travel
Lifestyle Habits That Support Immunity
While vaccines do the heavy lifting, your daily habits also play a role:- Eat a nutrient-rich diet to support your immune response
- Get 7–8 hours of sleep every night
- Avoid smoking and alcohol, which can weaken immunity
- Manage stress through yoga, walks, or meditation
Planning Pregnancy? Here’s a Simple Checklist:
- Schedule a preconception consultation
- Get your vaccination history reviewed
- Take the necessary blood tests to assess immunity
- Receive recommended vaccines on time
- Wait as advised after live vaccines before trying to conceive
- Follow a healthy lifestyle for a better start
Talk to Your Doctor
Immunisation before pregnancy is deeply personal. It depends on your:- Medical history
- Travel plans
- Current health condition
- Risk of exposure to diseases
Planning to have a baby soon means it’s time to check your vaccinations. Here’s something super important to keep in mind: getting your vaccinations in order before pregnancy can make a big difference. Making sure you’re protected against infections like rubella, chickenpox, and hepatitis B isn’t just about you; it’s about giving your future baby the healthiest start possible. A quick pre-pregnancy health check and a few timely vaccines can really help prevent complications later on. So don’t skip that consultation with your doctor; they’ll guide you on what shots you might need and how to plan your pregnancy timeline. Starting early means less stress, more peace of mind, and a safer journey for both you and your little one.
FAQs on Why Immunisation Before Pregnancy Matters More Than You Think
- Can I get pregnant right after a vaccine?
It depends on the vaccine. Live vaccines require a 28-day waiting period. Others do not. - What if I didn’t know I was pregnant and got a vaccine?
Speak to your doctor. Most vaccines have a very low risk, and monitoring is advised. - Are these vaccines safe?
Yes. All recommended vaccines are approved by health authorities for safety and efficacy. - Can I check my immunity without vaccination?
Yes. Blood tests called serological tests can determine your immunity to several diseases. - Why is rubella immunity so important?
Rubella can cause miscarriage or serious birth defects. Vaccination prevents this risk.
