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.

Facts about influenza and pregnancy

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.

How the flu shot benefits your 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.

Things to remember

  • There is a lot of proof that it is safe to take the flu vaccine when you are pregnant, but many people are still concerned it may hurt their baby. It can help to know the following.
  • Pregnant women should not get a live version of the flu shot or the nasal spray vaccine. This is because the live influenza virus could pass through the placenta.
  • According to the CDC, these vaccines have been safely administered to people of all ages and life stages. One study followed pregnant women over the course of three flu seasons and found no increased risk of miscarriage.
  • Even if you have preexisting conditions, getting the regular flu shot at a clinic, pharmacy, or establishment other than your doctor’s office should be fine.
  • The CDC and FDA monitor flu shots every season to ensure they are safe for the public.
  • If you are not vaccinated when you get pregnant, ask your doctor if it’s safe for you to have a flu shot even though you’re expecting. The answer will likely be yes!

When is the best time to get the flu shot when pregnant?

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.

Want to learn more about the flu vaccine?

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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