Immunization is a simple and highly effective method to protect both the mother and the baby from a range of infections. During pregnancy, the immunological changes in women’s bodies increase their susceptibility to certain infectious diseases that can have serious outcomes. Therefore pregnancy vaccine shots are important to protect the mother and fetus from vaccine-preventable diseases. Immunization also offers direct protection to the fetus via transferred antibodies. Although doubts about the safety of vaccinations prevail in the general population, there are no studies globally that indicate risks to the fetus that arise out of vaccinations.
Are vaccinations safe during pregnancy?
Certain vaccinations are not only safe but also recommended for pregnant women to protect them against infections. Since the antibodies can cross the placenta, both the mother and the baby are protected during pregnancy and after delivery. Immunization is also essential to protect mothers from serious diseases that they are especially susceptible to during pregnancy. Hence the pregnancy vaccine flu shot, the tetanus vaccine and the vaccine for Hepatitis A and B are given if the woman has not already been immunized. Other vaccines such as the MMR, BCG, Yellow Fever and the Varicella vaccine, which are live, are not recommended because of the potential risk of the vaccine causing an infection.
Vaccines recommended during pregnancy:
The vaccination during pregnancy chart includes these shots:
Tetanus vaccine
Tetanus is a life-threatening disease caused by tetanus bacteria which is often found in the soil. Infections can be caused by animal bites, scratches or deep cuts or bruises from an accidental fall. The vaccine is mandatory during the first pregnancy and is given in two doses. The first dose is administered when pregnancy is detected, and the second one after 4 weeks.
Influenza Vaccine
Influenza has a tendency to cause more severe illness in pregnant women than non-pregnant women. The incidences of hospitalization and death are greater in pregnant women as they are more prone to the disease. Inactivated influenza vaccine is given to pregnant women regardless of the gestation period during the peak influenza season.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Hepatitis B is a serious infection that causes inflammation of the liver. The disease can result in severe morbidity in pregnant women and also increase the risk of preterm birth. The biggest concern with Hepatitis B in pregnant women is the transmission of the infection from the mother to the baby with long term complications. The shot is given to women who are at a high risk of acquiring the infection.
Hepatitis A vaccine
Similar to Hepatitis B, Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver disease that increases the risk of preterm labour in pregnant women. While the disease is not as severe and doesn’t cause serious complications, the vaccine is still given if the woman is at risk of contracting the disease.
Other Vaccines
If indicated, these pregnancy vaccines in India are also administered:
- Meningococcal
- Pneumococcal
- Tdap
Conclusion
Immunization in pregnancy is essential to prevent certain infections that can have serious outcomes for both the mother and the baby. The vaccines are administered based on the indications and are decided by the doctor in the best interest of the pregnant women.