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The Importance Of Vaccination Before And During Pregnancy
Mothers' antibodies to these vaccinations protect them. They also cross the placenta, shielding the newborn from dangerous ailments early in life. This is why obtaining the necessary vaccination before and throughout pregnancy is critical. It's a simple action that may offer full protection for both mother and baby, guaranteeing a healthier start for young children. Vaccinations To Get Before Pregnancy
Before intending to conceive, couples must be aware of certain necessary vaccinations, which are listed below:MMR
MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) Rubella is uncommon, but contracting it during pregnancy may be risky for the unborn baby. It is recommended to avoid the risk. The risk may also be minimised by obtaining the Rubella vaccine before having a baby.- Why it’s important: This vaccine is particularly important because it protects you from three highly infectious diseases. These diseases can cause issues like brain inflammation, hearing loss and birth defects in pregnant women. Vaccination will not only protect you but also make herd immunity a possibility.
- When to get it: The MMR vaccine is never administered during pregnancy and ideally should be administered before or after pregnancy.
Chickenpox
Chickenpox is another deadly illness, particularly harmful during pregnancy. If a woman has chickenpox during her first 20 weeks of pregnancy, her baby is at risk of developing congenital varicella syndrome, a rare condition that may cause major birth defects.- Why it’s important: The chickenpox vaccine, also known as the varicella vaccine, protects you from severe illness and complications associated with chickenpox. The vaccine can also protect you from developing shingles later in life.
- When to get it: The chickenpox vaccine is never administered during pregnancy. You should get it before or after pregnancy.
HPV Vaccine (Human Papillomavirus)
The HPV vaccine is a series of injections that protect against HPV (Human Papillomavirus), a common sexually transmitted infection (STI).- Why it’s important: The vaccine is very effective in preventing the infection and the cancers that are caused by it.
- When to get it: The HPV vaccine is not administered to pregnant women and should be given before pregnancy. If you are planning to get pregnant, speak to your doctor about the vaccine.
Vaccinations To Get During Pregnancy
Two vaccinations are commonly prescribed during pregnancy to protect the health of both the mother and the baby: Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccine
Infants whose moms received the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy are less likely to acquire pertussis during the first few crucial months of life. Furthermore, Tdap immunisation given during the third trimester of pregnancy may help prevent pertussis in babies under the age of two months.All pregnant women should be required to get the Tdap vaccination throughout each pregnancy. The vaccination stimulates the production of antibodies that protect the mother and infant against sickness. These antibodies travel to the foetus and may protect the infant until it receives the Tdap vaccination at two months old.
- Why it’s important: The TDAP vaccine protects against three diseases that could lead to life-threatening conditions.
- When to get it: A pregnant woman should get the TDAP vaccine during each pregnancy, ideally between weeks 27 and 36.
Flu (influenza)
If a woman develops the flu while pregnant, she is more likely to have significant difficulties than other adults. As a result, getting a flu vaccination before attempting to conceive is a good idea. - Why it’s important: The flu vaccine is important because it reduces the severity of infection. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to infections turning severe.
- When to get it: This vaccine is safe for pregnant women. The flu vaccine can be administered during any trimester of pregnancy, ideally by the end of October. If the vaccine is available between July to August, early vaccination can also be considered if a woman is in her third trimester.
Flu shots may help:
- Reduce the chance of acquiring the flu
- Reduce the need for hospitalisation
- Prevent severe problems
Hepatitis A Vaccine
The Hepatitis A vaccine is a two-dose vaccination that protects against Hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection.- Why it’s important: This vaccine prevents Hepatitis A, which is highly contagious and can lead to serious illnesses and even death.
- When to get it: The Hepatitis A vaccine is administered to women who are at a high risk of exposure to the hepatitis A virus. It is given in two or three doses over a period of six months.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
The Hepatitis B vaccine includes a series of doses to protect against Hepatitis B, a common disease. It is safe for people of all ages to receive this vaccine. - Why it’s important: The Hepatitis B vaccine prevents hepatitis B, which is a viral infection that can cause liver disease and liver cancer.
- When to get it: This is a safe and effective vaccine that provides long-term protection against hepatitis B. It can be given during pregnancy and there is no wait time required if you are trying to conceive.
Be sure to follow this vaccination schedule, and ask your doctor about any recommendations they may have, based on your individual circumstances.
FAQs on What Vaccines Do You Need Before and During Pregnancy?
- How many TT shots are given during pregnancy?
Typically, you will need at least two TT (tetanus toxoid) shots while pregnant. - What vaccinations should you obtain before becoming pregnant?
It is suggested that you acquire vaccines for Hepatitis B, COVID-19, Chickenpox, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), and flu before becoming pregnant. Always seek customised guidance from your doctor.
