1. Why do I need to take vaccines when pregnant?
Getting infected with certain bacteria or viruses when pregnant can lead to serious complications for you or your baby. Vaccines not only help protect you and your baby through pregnancy but also protects your child in his/her first few months of life until they get their own vaccines.
2. When is a good time to take vaccines in pregnancy?
It is safe to take your vaccines after completing your first 3months of pregnancy.
3. Which vaccines are recommended during pregnancy?
The vaccines recommended during pregnancy are the flu shot, Tdap (Tetanus toxoid, low dose pertussis & diphtheria vaccine) and the COVID-19 vaccine.
4. Why is a flu shot recommended during pregnancy?
Getting Flu in pregnancy can lead to serious lung complications in the mother or increase the risk of preterm labor ( ie. birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy)
5. When is the Flu shot to be taken in pregnancy?
The Flu shot can be taken at around 16 weeks of pregnancy.
6. Why is a Tdap vaccine recommended during pregnancy?
Tdap is recommended during pregnancy as it protects the baby from diphtheria & pertussis after birth till the baby gets his/her vaccine.
7. What is the ideal time to take a Tdap vaccine?
Tdap vaccine is to be taken between 27 & 36 weeks of pregnancy.
8. Do I need t take the Tdap vaccine if I have taken a TT vaccine in my previous pregnancy?
Yes, you need to get a new Tdap vaccine for every pregnancy.
9. Can I take the Tdap vaccine if I have already taken the 1st dose of TT vaccine?
Yes, for the 2nd dose you can take the Tdap vaccine.
10. Do I need to take COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant?
Yes, you need to take COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy as pregnant women are at a risk of serious illness from COVID-19 infection.
11. When is it safe for me to take COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy?
You can safely take your COVID-19 vaccine once 13 weeks of pregnancy are completed ie. after completing your 1st trimester. If you are due for your booster shot you can take it once your 1st Trimester is over.
Sources:
- WHO Immunization Schedule
- CDC Immunization Scheduele
- Mayo Clinic website
- Maternal Immunization ACOG Committee Opinion.