Maternity & Parenting

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Why Pregnancy Vaccinations Matter

Vaccinations during pregnancy are a vital part of protecting both mother and baby from serious illnesses. The immune system naturally weakens during pregnancy, making expectant mothers more vulnerable to infections. Pregnancy vaccinations help bridge this gap by offering targeted protection that also benefits the baby.

Key Benefits

• Protects the Mother: Vaccines like the flu jab reduce the risk of severe illness such as pneumonia, which pregnant women are more susceptible to.
• Protects the Baby: Vaccines such as the whooping cough and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vaccines allow protective antibodies to pass from mother to baby. This shields newborns during their first vulnerable months before they can receive their own vaccinations.
• Reduces Hospital Admissions: Babies born to vaccinated mothers are less likely to suffer from severe infections that require hospitalisation.

Recommended Vaccines

• Flu Vaccine: Safe during any stage of pregnancy; helps prevent complications from seasonal flu.
• Whooping Cough Vaccine: Best administered between 16–32 weeks; protects newborns from a potentially life-threatening illness.
• RSV Vaccine: Offered from 28 weeks; helps prevent serious respiratory infections in infants.

Vaccination is a simple, safe, and effective way to ensure a healthier start for your baby and a safer pregnancy for you. Always consult your midwife or GP to discuss the best timing and options for your pregnancy vaccinations.

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