Should Pregnant Women Get Flu Shots

Most pregnant women face an increased risk of catching the flu or influenza-related complications, during the course of their pregnancy. This means, their unborn child is also at risk to catch the flu. According to doctors, pregnant women, as opposed to women that are not pregnant, are more likely to be hospitalized if they catch the flu, because their symptoms might get more complicated, and they may need to be monitored closely to ensure there is no risk transmitted to their unborn child.

The CDC has also stated that it has witnessed more hospitalizations and deaths due to influenza among pregnant women, making it even more imperative to remain cognizant of the flu and avoid catching it at all costs during pregnancy and the postpartum period. One of the best ways to do this is by taking the flu vaccine. Wondering if there are any flu vaccine in pregnancy side effects? Here's all you need to know about getting the influenza vaccine dose during pregnancy.

Your recommendations make a difference to your patients. The first and most important step for flu prevention is a flu vaccine. Treatment with flu antiviral drugs is our second line of defense against the flu.

Influenza Vaccine Dose in pregnancy

According to medical sources, pregnant women should ideally receive seasonal flu shots as they are more likely to catch the flu due to the changes that their bodies are undergoing. Pregnant women experience changes in their immune system, lungs, and heart during pregnancy, making them more prone to catching the flu easily, especially if it is going around in the air. In addition, it may be tougher for them to combat the flu or come out of it, as compared to other women their age who are not pregnant.

Pregnant women should ideally take the influenza vaccine to avoid catching the flu. Taking the vaccine can reduce a pregnant woman's chances of not just catching the flu, but also reduce the risk of being hospitalized in case she catches the flu.

Pregnant women who take the flu vaccine also protect their babies from catching this viral influenza, not just during the unborn stage, but also for the first few months after being born, as the child may be too young to get the flu vaccine at that time.

Pros and Cons of Flu Shot During Pregnancy

The influenza vaccine is completely safe. According to Healthline, pregnant women should get the flu shot annually. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests that there is no specific time during pregnancy to get the seasonal flu shot. Nonetheless, it is recommended that a pregnant woman consults with her doctor in case of any complications or concerns regarding when to get the flu shot.

Here are some of the pros and cons of flu shots during pregnancy -

Pros

• Protection for the baby after birth.

• Improve chances of passing anti-influenza antibodies to the baby while breastfeeding to keep them protected.

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• Avoid complications like respiratory distress during pregnancy.

• Mitigate harm to baby's development.

• Prevent any maternal complications from being passed on to the baby.

• Prevent health risks to the foetus.

• While there aren't any cons to getting the flu shot during pregnancy, it's recommended that one consults their doctor to avoid any complications or risks, especially if you have any ancillary health challenges, or undergoing a tough pregnancy. While some say flu shots might have a correlation to miscarriages, this is not proven. It's best to consult a healthcare expert to understand your body the best.

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Flu Vaccine in Pregnancy Side Effects

Taking the flu vaccine during pregnancy? Side effects may be common. Here are some side effects to look out for -

• Redness, swelling or soreness

• Tenderness

• Fever

• Headache

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• Fatigue

• Nausea

• Muscle pain/ ache

While you may undergo some side effects of the flu shot during pregnancy, don't worry or stress your body as it is normal to have these side effects. In fact, the side effects will most likely be highly mild. However, do consult your doctor in case of an emergency, or if you feel the side effects staying longer.

FAQs

1. Can I get a Flu Shot While Pregnant Third Trimester?

Yes, according to the CDC and ACOG, it is safe to get a flu shot during the third trimester of your pregnancy.

2. Is it safe to get the Influenza Vaccine Dose in pregnancy?

Yes, it is not just safe, but highly recommended to get the influenza vaccine dose in pregnancy, unless otherwise stated by your doctor.

References

1. SteelFisher GK, Caporello HL, Broussard CS, Schafer TJ, Ben-Porath EN, Blendon RJ. (2021). Seasonal Influenza Vaccine in Pregnant Women: Views and Experiences of Obstetrician-Gynecologists. J Womens Health (Larchmt).

2. Mother To Baby | Fact Sheets [Internet]. (1994). Brentwood (TN): Organization of Teratology Information Specialists. Seasonal Influenza Vaccine (Flu Shot)

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