Vaccination in Pregnancy: Safeguarding Mother and Baby

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By Dr. Shubhra (MBBS, MS – Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Pregnancy is a unique and life-changing experience that brings joy, anticipation, and the responsibility of nurturing a new life. As a practicing obstetrician, I, Dr. Shubhra, advise that protecting the health of both mother and child starts during pregnancy, and one of the most effective ways to do this is through timely and appropriate vaccinations.

Why Vaccination Matters During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, a woman’s immune system undergoes changes, which can make her more vulnerable to infections. Certain illnesses not only impact the mother’s health but can also lead to complications for the baby, including premature delivery, low birth weight, developmental issues, and in severe cases, stillbirth.

Vaccines play a vital role by:

• Shielding the mother from serious infections.
• Passing protective antibodies to the fetus through the placenta, offering early immunity.
• Limiting the spread of infectious diseases within the community.

Essential Vaccines During Pregnancy

1. Flu (Influenza) Vaccine

• Type: Inactivated virus (safe for pregnancy).
• When: At any stage of pregnancy, especially before or during flu season.
• Benefit: Reduces the risk of severe flu symptoms and complications in the mother; also helps protect the baby after birth.

Tdap Vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

• When: Ideally between 27 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.
• Benefit: Prevents whooping cough in newborns, which can be fatal, and protects the mother from tetanus and diphtheria.

COVID-19 Vaccine (Follow current medical guidance)

• When: At any point during pregnancy; preferably early in pregnancy.
• Benefit: Reduces the risk of severe COVID-19 illness and may provide antibodies to the baby.

Vaccines to Avoid During Pregnancy

Some vaccines, particularly live vaccines, are not advised during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. These include:

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Varicella (Chickenpox)
• HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
• BCG (Tuberculosis)

If immunity is lacking, these should be given before pregnancy or after childbirth.

Pre-Pregnancy and Postpartum Immunization

Before Pregnancy

Women planning to conceive should check their immunization status and receive vaccines such as:

• MMR – To prevent rubella-related birth defects.
• Varicella – To avoid chickenpox complications.
• Hepatitis B – To prevent liver disease and mother-to-child transmission.

After Delivery

After giving birth, women can receive any missed vaccines, including:

• MMR
• Varicella
• HPV
• Hepatitis B

These vaccines are safe while breastfeeding and help protect both mother and baby.

Common Questions About Vaccination in Pregnancy