What Vaccines Are Given During Pregnancy? Insights by Dr. Anuradha Sarkhel
Pregnancy is a time of great joy and anticipation, but it also requires careful attention to the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. One crucial aspect of prenatal care is ensuring that expectant mothers receive the appropriate vaccinations. These vaccines not only protect the mother but also provide vital immunity to the unborn child. Dr. Anuradha Sarkhel, one of the best lady gynecologists in Kolkata, shares her expertise on the essential vaccines recommended during pregnancy.
Why Are Vaccines Important During Pregnancy?
Vaccines play a critical role in safeguarding both the mother and the developing baby against infectious diseases. During pregnancy, a woman’s immune system is naturally suppressed, making her more vulnerable to certain infections. Vaccination helps to protect the mother from these diseases and, through the transfer of antibodies, also protects the baby after birth.
Key Vaccines Recommended During Pregnancy
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap): The Tdap vaccine is one of the most important vaccines recommended during pregnancy. It protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Pertussis is particularly dangerous for newborns, and by vaccinating during pregnancy, mothers can pass on immunity to their babies, helping to protect them in the first few months of life. The Tdap vaccine is typically administered between 27 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.
- Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: The flu vaccine is essential for pregnant women, especially during flu season. Pregnancy increases the risk of severe complications from influenza, including pneumonia. The flu vaccine not only protects the mother but also provides immunity to the baby for the first six months after birth. The inactivated flu vaccine is safe to administer at any stage of pregnancy.
- Hepatitis B Vaccine: Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection that can be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth. If a pregnant woman is at high risk of hepatitis B infection or tests positive for the virus, the hepatitis B vaccine is recommended. This vaccine helps prevent the transmission of the virus to the baby.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: Given the ongoing pandemic, the COVID-19 vaccine is strongly recommended for pregnant women. The vaccine helps protect against severe illness caused by the virus and reduces the risk of complications during pregnancy. The World Health Organization and other health authorities have confirmed the safety of COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy.
Vaccines to Avoid During Pregnancy
While some vaccines are essential during pregnancy, others should be avoided. Live vaccines, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, and the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, are generally not recommended during pregnancy. It is advisable to receive these vaccines before conception if possible.
Conclusion
Vaccination during pregnancy is a key component of prenatal care that ensures the health and safety of both mother and baby. Dr. Anuradha Sarkhel emphasizes the importance of receiving the recommended vaccines to protect against preventable diseases and to give your baby the best start in life.
For personalized advice and comprehensive prenatal care, consider consulting with Dr. Anuradha Sarkhel, one of Kolkata’s best lady gynecologists. She can guide you through a safe and healthy pregnancy with expert care.