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August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and McFarland Clinic wants to share with you information about vaccines for people of all ages. This post covers the important vaccinations for pregnant women and their unborn babies.
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During pregnancy, vaccinations are an important part of staying healthy. Getting vaccinated during pregnancy also helps you pass protection to your baby. Pregnancy is also a good time to start learning about vaccines to protect your unborn baby and your child after birth.
Make sure you are up to date on vaccinations before, during, and after pregnancy.
Women who may become pregnant should receive their recommended vaccines before pregnancy. Many vaccine-preventable diseases can cause serious problems including pregnancy complications and birth defects.
The whooping cough vaccine should be given to women during pregnancy. Whooping cough can be life threatening to a newborn, but a mother receiving the vaccination during pregnancy can provide early protection against whooping cough.
The flu shot can help protect a pregnant woman from getting the flu. Pregnant women are at high risk of hospitalization with the flu. The antibodies in the flu shot are also passed on to the baby, which can help after your child is born as they will be unable to get the flu shot themself until six months of age. Newborns are at high risk of serious flu complications, so getting the flu shot while pregnant can help protect them.
Other vaccinations may also be recommended during pregnancy. Check with your primary care provider or obstetric provider for more information.
Even after birth, some women may need additional vaccinations. Talk to your doctor about this.
For more information about vaccinations, see the following: