Vaccines During Pregnancy
Safety and recommendations for maternal immunization.
Vaccination during pregnancy protects both the mother and the developing baby. Some vaccines are specifically recommended during pregnancy, while others should be delayed until after delivery.
Recommended During Pregnancy
- Tdap: Recommended during each pregnancy (weeks 27-36)
- Influenza: Recommended during any trimester
- COVID-19: Recommended during pregnancy
- RSV: Recommended during pregnancy (single dose)
Safety Data
Extensive data from pregnancy registries and surveillance systems show these vaccines are safe:
- No increased risk of miscarriage
- No increased risk of birth defects
- No adverse pregnancy outcomes
Contraindicated Vaccines
- Live vaccines (MMR, varicella) should be given after pregnancy
Maternal-Fetal Antibody Transfer
Vaccines during pregnancy stimulate antibodies that cross the placenta, providing passive immunity to the newborn. This protection is critical in the first months of life before infants can be fully vaccinated.