Vaccination during Pregnancy

BY Dr. Naga Salini, MBBS, MS Published on October 25, 2021

Well, let’s not forget how immunization plays the role of a strong fighter in fighting against any foreign body from entering into the body of a normal person. Now, let’s put some limelight on the maternal body and how this immunization plays a vital role during pregnancy.

How immunization plays a crucial role during pregnancy

We have been learning since our childhood how health and hygiene play an important role in our life. Health and Hygiene both go hand in hand. In order to strengthen our body to battle against any type of disease and save us from ill-health. It is commonly said, “Health is Wealth. So, keeping health in mind we should always be particular and observant to stay immunized especially during pregnancy.

Vaccination during pregnancy is justified when there is a risk of exposure and potential harm to the mother or fetus..

The Infectious Diseases Society of America and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists have together published general guidelines for immunization of pregnant women.

Vaccinations given to a pregnant women :

Tetanus, Diphtheria and Acellular Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine

Maternal Tdap vaccination ensures in protecting infants. Doctors recommend to take between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation.

Influenza vaccine

Flu vaccination during pregnancy is safe. This helps protect babies from flu-related complications for several months after birth.

The Vaccines mentioned above are not simply a list of vaccines administered to pregnant women. These are important to ensure the safety and protection of the newborn.

COVID-19 VACCINATION OF PREGNANT WOMEN:

COVID-19 infection during pregnancy may result in rapid deterioration of health of pregnant women and could also affect the fetus. Experts are of the view that the benefits of vaccination to the pregnant women outweigh its potential risks. MoHFW has approved COVID-19 vaccination for pregnant women, following NTAGI recommendations, with the condition of informed consent regarding risks and benefits.. Based on the information provided, a pregnant woman will have the choice to take the vaccination.

Approved COVID-19 vaccines in pregnancy in India are Covaxin and Covishield. Other vaccines administered in other countries are Pfizer (Biotech) and Moderna.

Other vaccines

Some women may need other vaccines before, during, or after they become pregnant. Eg. If a pregnant woman works in a lab or travels to a high-risk country, her doctor may recommend meningococcal vaccination.

Hepatitis B: A baby whose mother has hepatitis B is at highest risk for becoming infected with hepatitis B during delivery. Moms, consult your healthcare professional to discuss hepatitis B testing and if the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A: Doctors or healthcare professionals may advise pregnant women with a history of chronic liver disease to consider the hepatitis A vaccine.
Vaccines for travel: Pregnant women intending to travel internationally should consult their doctor or healthcare professional 4 to 6 weeks before their trip.

Can a vaccine harm my developing baby?

Pregnant women should not receive certain vaccines, particularly live vaccines, as they may harm the baby.. Keep in mind that vaccine recommendations for pregnant women are developed keeping in mind highest safety concerns.

Conclusion:

Benefits of vaccination of pregnant women outweigh its potential risks and provide immunity to pregnant woman and fetus. Take a proactive step: Vaccinate to save lives, including the lives of unborn infants entering the world.. Save two precious lives by immunizing efficiently.