Immunizations and Pregnancy

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Typically, you should be up-to-date on all your immunizations before you get pregnant. Vaccinations should only be given during pregnancy if you are at high risk of exposure to a serious infection and as long as your baby will not be harmed.

"What vaccines should I avoid while pregnant?"
To keep you informed, here is a list of vaccinations that SHOULD NOT be given during pregnancy:
HPV Vaccine: The Human Papillomavirus, also known as HPV is known to cause venereal warts and unusual pap smears. Gardasil is a new vaccine that is given to young women to prevent this infection but it is not recommended during pregnancy.

MMR Vaccine: Measles, Mumps and Rubella all have serious consequences if contracted during the early part of your pregnancy. These infections increase your chance of miscarriage and preterm birth. Fortunately, the majority of women have received the MMR vaccine well before their pregnancy.

Varicella Vaccine: If you get the chickenpox during the first 20 weeks of your pregnancy, there is a small chance your baby can get a disease known as Congenital Varicella Syndrome which causes small limbs and head, as well as eye problems.

It is important to note that just because you have delivered your baby does not mean you are free to receive any vaccine. You should wait at least four weeks after giving birth to get immunizations and use birth control for at least three months after being vaccinated.

"What vaccines are okay to receive while I'm pregnant?"
There are some vaccines that can be used during pregnancy but only if absolutely needed. The following is a list of infections that would need mandatory vaccinations:
Tetanus Infection: Tetanus is a potentially deadly disease that begins with spasms of the jaw muscles, also known as lock jaw. One out of three people die of tetanus when left untreated. The death rate is even higher for newborns that usually acquire this infection when unsterile techniques are used to clamp the umbilical cord.

Diptheria Infection: This infectious disease is usually recognized by a bluish tint to the skin, breathing problems and a croup-like cough. If you feel that you have come into contact with someone who has Diptheria, it is important to confirm that you have received this vaccine within the past 10 years.

Pertussis Infection: Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that causes violent coughing and difficulty breathing. It is characterized by a deep "whooping" sound that is made with each breath. This disease can cause permanent problems for your infant and even death.

Influenza Infection: Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory illness that can sometimes lead to death. If you are at high risk, you should get a flu vaccine every year. The N1H1 flu can also be extremely lethal. One out of three pregnant women that develop N1H1 flu has been hospitalized with severe respiratory problems!

It is highly recommended that pregnant women get the flu vaccination, as well as the new H1N1 flu vaccine, both of which reduce the serious complications that these infections can cause.

Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is an inflammation of the liver that is characterized by yellow skin or jaundice. The virus spreads through blood and other body fluids and can be passed to your baby at childbirth.

You should only receive the Hepatitis B vaccine if you were not finished with the series of vaccinations prior to your pregnancy or if you are at high risk of developing the virus.

Immunizations can prevent disease while you are pregnant but keep in mind that they should only be used if needed and safe for you and your baby. If you feel you have contracted or are at risk of getting any of these serious diseases, contact your physician.

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