Vaccinations For Women Before And During Pregnancy: Expert Explains

The pregnancy period is called a fragile period, but a woman's body does wonders to grow a new life. During this period, there is a natural change in the woman's immune system, which puts them at risk of a few infections. Vaccinations, experts say, are a safe method to avoid such infections.

Dr Sushruta Mokadam, Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Kharadi, Pune, has stressed that women need to take up immunisation not only for themselves but also for their unborn child. "When a pregnant woman receives recommended vaccines, her body produces antibodies that are beneficial for the baby in the first few months as well, since the newborn's immune system is immature," she says.

According to the doctor, diseases like rubella, influenza, hepatitis, COVID-19, and pertussis can affect pregnant women significantly. "Pregnancy infections could lead to premature labour, low birth weight, miscarriage or serious illnesses in a newborn. It's always better to prevent these issues rather than treat them," Dr Mokadam recommends.

She further says that preventing infections would help avoid prolonged admission in hospitals and also the use of antibiotics in pregnant women to a minimum, which aids the mother and fetus to maintain well-being.

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Vaccinations For Women Before Pregnancy

• MMR vaccine-This protects them from rubella, which could cause congenital problems to the foetus.
• Varicella vaccine-This helps to fight chickenpox during pregnancy, which can pose a serious risk.
• Hepatitis B-This is vital to protect from a liver infection, which can be transferred from mother to baby.
• HPV vaccine-It is advisable to take this vaccine before conception to reduce the risk of cervical disease.

"These vaccines are advisable to be taken before conception, because there are certain vaccines that can be taken during pregnancy, but these are ideally recommended before we get pregnant. Pre-pregnancy consultation helps us to have this plan safely", says Dr Mokadam.

Vaccinations For Women During Pregnancy

• Tdap vaccine-This is important for the newborn as it provides immunity against whooping cough, especially in the first few months of life.
• Influenza vaccine-The vaccine can help to lower the risk of catching severe complications caused by flu, as pregnant women are more prone to catching infections.
• COVID-19 vaccine-This can reduce the severe illness caused by the virus and complications related to pregnancy.

Regarding common concerns of side effects, Dr Mokadam states: "Most vaccinations recommended in pregnancy will only cause slight temporary reactions, such as injection site pain, a low fever, or headache, which resolve in 1 to 2 days. Any severe reactions are exceptionally uncommon".

All in all, vaccination during and before pregnancy can significantly help protect both mother and baby. Being informed and following a trusted health specialist will ensure you and your baby have the best possible start to your pregnancy.

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