Hey there! Let’s talk about a topic that’s on the minds of many expectant parents: vaccines. Just the other day, Sarah, who is in her third trimester, reached out with a question: “I’m worried about getting sick while pregnant. What vaccines do I need?” Trust me, she’s not alone in her concerns. Many parents-to-be want the latest info on how to keep themselves and their little ones safe.
Getting Ready Before Pregnancy
First things first: some vaccines are best received before you get pregnant. You might have heard that live vaccines, like the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and varicella (chickenpox) vaccines, aren’t recommended during pregnancy. That’s because they use weakened viruses which, although rare, could potentially cause illness.
So, how do you protect yourself from these viruses? The CDC suggests that anyone who hasn’t received the MMR vaccine should consider getting at least one dose before trying to conceive. And if you’ve never had chickenpox or the vaccine, two doses of the varicella vaccine (spaced at least four weeks apart) are a good idea. If you’re unsure about your vaccination history, it’s totally safe to get these vaccines prior to a positive pregnancy test! Just remember to wait about a month after vaccination before getting pregnant.
Vaccines to Get During Pregnancy
Now, let’s dive into what you should receive while you’re pregnant. The CDC recommends that all pregnant women get the flu shot and stay up-to-date with the COVID-19 vaccine each year. It’s also important to get the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccine during each pregnancy, specifically between 27 and 36 weeks. There’s also a new RSV vaccine which can be given between 32 and 36 weeks if you haven’t had it in a previous pregnancy.
The flu shot is available in September and is crucial to get by the end of October to help protect you and your baby during flu season. Plus, the COVID-19 vaccine is essential since pregnant women are at a higher risk of severe illness from the virus. Staying informed on these recommendations is key, so check out the CDC for more on this topic.
Traveling and Additional Precautions
If you’re planning any travel, be sure to discuss vaccines with your healthcare provider well in advance—ideally 4-6 weeks before your trip. Some infections, like Zika and malaria, don’t have vaccines available and can pose serious risks during pregnancy, so it’s best to avoid areas where these diseases are prevalent.
Even though masks are not mandatory in most places, they can still be an effective way to minimize your risk of infections, along with good hand hygiene!
After chatting with Sarah, she felt more empowered to schedule her COVID-19 and Tdap vaccines, and she’s ready to get the flu shot as soon as it’s available. It’s all about making informed choices for both you and your baby.
In Summary
Vaccination is an essential part of prenatal care that can significantly protect both you and your baby from harmful diseases. By getting the right vaccines before and during pregnancy, you can ensure a healthier start for your little one. For more detailed information, the CDC is an excellent resource for all things regarding pregnancy and home insemination.