Vaccines During Pregnancy
Pregnancy can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of illness. Many infections can cause serious health problems for both mother and baby. Some vaccines are safe and recommended during pregnancy to lower these risks, while others should be avoided.
Vaccines during pregnancy not only protect you—they also help safeguard your newborn until they are old enough to receive their own vaccinations. Many serious illnesses, such as whooping cough, RSV, and influenza, can be dangerous or even life-threatening to babies in their first few months of life.
Vaccines Recommended During Pregnancy
You should get the following vaccines during pregnancy:
Flu Shot (Influenza Vaccine)
The flu shot uses an inactivated virus, so it is safe during pregnancy. It helps protect you from severe flu symptoms and also protects your baby after birth. Do not use the nasal spray version, as it contains a live virus.
Getting the flu vaccine during pregnancy also reduces the chance of hospitalization due to the flu—both for the pregnant person and for the baby during the first few months of life. The shot is safe to receive during any trimester.
Tdap Vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Get a single dose during each pregnancy, regardless of when you last received it. The best time is between 27 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. This vaccine protects newborns from whooping cough (pertussis), a highly contagious disease that can be deadly for infants. Antibodies from this vaccine pass through the placenta to help protect your baby after birth, before they are old enough to start their own vaccination series.
RSV Vaccine (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
If you are between 32 and 36 weeks pregnant during the fall and winter, getting the RSV vaccine can protect both you and your newborn. RSV infection can be dangerous for young babies, and vaccination provides short-term protection during peak season.
The RSV vaccine is especially important for babies born just before or during RSV season, as their risk of complications—such as bronchiolitis or hospitalization—is highest during those early weeks.
Possible Additional Vaccines
Some people may need extra vaccines during pregnancy based on health or risk factors.
- Hepatitis B: Recommended if you are at higher risk for infection. This includes people with certain medical conditions, people who live with someone who has hepatitis B, or those with workplace exposure to blood.
- Vaccines for Travel: Depending on where you’re going, you may need additional vaccines. Always check with your provider before international travel during pregnancy.
Your provider may also discuss other vaccines if you’re at increased risk for certain infections due to underlying health issues, recent exposures, or community outbreaks.
Summary Table: Common Vaccines and Pregnancy Safety
| Vaccine | Type | Recommended in Pregnancy? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seasonal Flu Shot | Inactivated virus | Yes | Use shot, not nasal spray |
| Tdap | Inactivated toxoid | Yes | Each pregnancy, 27–36 weeks |
| RSV | Protein-based | Yes (32–36 weeks, fall-winter) | Reduces risk in newborns |
| Hepatitis B | Inactivated | Sometimes | If at higher risk |
| Varicella (Chickenpox) | Live virus | No | Avoid during pregnancy |
| MMR | Live virus | No | Avoid during pregnancy |
| Influenza Nasal Spray | Live virus | No | Use flu shot instead |
| Shingles | Non-live | No (delay vaccination) | Postpone until after pregnancy |
Vaccines to Avoid While Pregnant
Avoid vaccines that use live viruses during pregnancy, as they may harm the unborn baby. These include:
- Varicella Vaccine (Chickenpox): Do not get the varicella vaccine while pregnant, as it contains a live virus that can harm the developing baby.
- MMR Vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): This vaccine also uses a live virus and should not be given during pregnancy.
Flu Nasal Spray Vaccine: The nasal mist form contains a live virus and should be avoided.
- Shingles Vaccine: Even though this vaccine does not contain a live virus, wait until after pregnancy to get it. Some live-virus vaccines may be given immediately after delivery if needed. This allows for maternal immunity while keeping the baby safe.
Some live-virus vaccines may be administered right after childbirth if needed, which can help build immunity before future pregnancies.
Planning Ahead for Pregnancy
If you plan to become pregnant, talk with your healthcare provider about your vaccine history and any needed vaccinations before conception. This helps keep you and your future baby safe.
Some vaccines—such as MMR or varicella—should be given at least a month before trying to conceive. Planning ahead gives your body time to build protection and avoid vaccine-related risks during early pregnancy. You may also want to check:
- If you’ve ever had chickenpox or need proof of immunity.
- When you last had a tetanus booster or hepatitis B shot.
- Whether you’re due for a flu vaccine based on the time of year.
