Protecting Expectant Mothers: The Critical Need for Flu Vaccinations During Pregnancy

November 15, 2023

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Did you know? Getting a flu shot can reduce the risk of hospitalization due to influenza by about 40% for pregnant women. This not only protects the pregnant individuals but also offers protection to their babies from flu illness during the first several months of life, when the infants are too young to be vaccinated themselves. (www.cdc.gov)

The flu season can be challenging for everyone, but it can especially present unique risks for pregnant women. Severe complications from the flu can arise for expectant mothers and their unborn children. The transformative period of pregnancy results in many physical changes, such as a weakened immune system, making it more susceptible to infections like the flu. There are also changes in lung capacity and heart function that could lead to hospitalization or, worse, if infected with the virus. A critical prevention measure that can safeguard maternal and fetal health is ensuring you receive a vaccination.

In this article, we will explain why getting a flu vaccination is a simple step in helping to reduce the effects of the flu virus and ensure you have a healthy and happy winter season.

Receiving a flu vaccine during pregnancy offers benefits that help minimize the risk of needing hospitalization. Getting a flu vaccine is essential for pregnant women because it reduces the chances of potential complications that can be experienced from a severe flu infection, such as preterm labor and preterm birth. The flu’s effects on the respiratory system can also cause significant stress on a system already under strain from pregnancy due to the expanding uterus pressing against the diaphragm. Ensuring a mother’s health is protected helps safeguard the health of an unborn child. Protecting a mother’s health is an essential step in the well-being of a developing fetus, helping to ensure a positive birth outcome.

Protection from a vaccine doesn’t only help the mother, but it also ensures there is immunity for her baby. Getting vaccinated helps offer the unborn child ‌crucial defense during the early, vulnerable stages of infancy and protects for the first few months of life. Becoming infected with the flu has the potential to cross the placenta and infect the developing fetus and as a result, lead to complications like birth defects. Vaccinations help to reduce these issues and ensure a full-term, healthy pregnancy, as well as provide a protective barrier for reducing the risk of fetal infection.

There are always concerns about what you put into your body as an expecting mother, especially regarding vaccines. However, it’s essential to understand that vaccines for the flu have been thoroughly studied, and rigorous testing has been done that has demonstrated their safety in pregnant women.

Flu shots have been given to millions of pregnant women over several decades with a good safety record. It’s even safe for postpartum women, even if they are breastfeeding. The flu vaccine is inactivated, meaning it contains no live virus, and it has been administered to pregnant women for decades without adverse effects.

Flu season typically has an expansive window that spans from October to May. To ensure you receive the maximum protection, you should consider getting a vaccination during the early stages of your pregnancy. Although getting ahead is essential, it is never too late for a pregnant woman to get the flu vaccine, as it can provide significant benefits even if administered later in the season.

Overall, getting vaccinated is essential in protecting yourself, your unborn children, and your family’s health. It’s always important to take preventive measures to help maintain a healthy pregnancy and a positive birth outcome.

Pregnant women need to have open and honest discussions with their healthcare providers about vaccinations, as they can provide personalized guidance based on the individual’s medical history and specific circumstances. Addressing concerns or questions about vaccines during pregnancy is essential to the decision-making process. The healthcare provider can provide accurate information, discuss potential risks and benefits, and tailor recommendations to ensure the mother’s and baby’s health and well-being.

In addition to vaccination, adopting other preventive measures is crucial to help ensure a healthy pregnancy. This includes maintaining a well-balanced diet, staying physically active as your healthcare provider recommends, managing stress, and avoiding exposure to harmful substances. Combining vaccination with these measures creates a positive approach to supporting a healthy birth outcome and ensures the family’s long-term health.

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Sources

CDC: Influenza (Flu) Vaccine and Pregnancy