Why Pregnant Women Should Get The Flu Shot
It is well known that some vaccines and medications can cause harm to babies in the womb, but this is not the case with the flu shot. In fact, it is recommended that pregnant women get a flu vaccination to protect themselves and their unborn babies.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that pregnant women are 5 times more likely to be hospitalized from the flu compared to non-pregnant women. Additionally, pregnant women who contract the flu are at a higher risk of developing serious complications such as pneumonia, which can lead to hospitalization or even death.
According to the March of Dimes, fever from this virus can cause your baby to have neural tube defects, which can result in brain and spinal cord issues. The flu may also lead to low birth weight and an increased risk of preterm birth, both of which can have long-lasting health effects on the baby.
When you are pregnant and get a flu shot, the immunity passes to your baby. That immunity lasts several months after birth. This is helpful because children should not have their first flu shot until at least six months of age. If you are breastfeeding and get a flu vaccine, your baby will receive protective benefits too.
Always speak with your doctor about vaccinations and medications when you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. They will have the latest information available to keep you and your baby healthy. With that in mind, it is recommended that mothers in their third trimester get the vaccine between July and August, while others should get it between September and October.
At Women’s Healthcare Associates in Amarillo, TX, we have decades of combined experience in caring for you and your developing baby. We help maintain the prenatal health of our patients through detailed monitoring and healthy advice, among a variety of other Services. Our team wants you and your developing baby to have a great start in your new life together! To learn about our Prenatal Care Options, please call (806) 355-6330 to schedule an appointment.
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