Vaccines help to prevent childhood illnesses, they also play a vital role in protecting mothers and babies during pregnancy. Vaccines given at the right time help prevent many health risks, ensuring safer pregnancies and healthier outcomes for both mother and child.
As a woman’s body adapts to support her growing baby, her immune defences weaken, making her more susceptible to infections. Immunization during this time helps guard against serious health risks and provides crucial protection to newborns in their earliest, most vulnerable months of life, says Dr Mini Salunkhe, Director, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Sahyadri Hospitals MomStory, Hadapsar, Pune.
“Pregnancy brings many changes to a woman’s immune system, making her more vulnerable to infections like influenza, COVID-19, and whooping cough. During this time, certain illnesses can be more severe and may lead to complications such as premature delivery or low birth weight. These risks impact both the mother and the baby’s health. Vaccines act as a shield, reducing these risks without endangering the pregnancy. They are carefully tested for safety and recommended by national health authorities,” explains Dr Salunkhe.
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Speaking about how vaccines protect both mother and baby, Dr Salunkhe says, “One of the most powerful benefits of vaccination in pregnancy is passive immunity. When a pregnant woman receives a vaccine, her body produces antibodies that cross the placenta and protect the baby for the first few months of life.”
This transfer of immunity, she adds, is critical because babies can’t receive some vaccines right after birth. This early protection helps reduce hospital visits and prevents life-threatening illnesses like whooping cough and flu. Vaccines also help lower the chances of preterm labour and improve birth outcomes.
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Dr Salunkhe shares a list of vaccines recommended during pregnancy:
- Tetanus or TD (Tetanus-Diphtheria) When: After 16 weeks Why: Prevents tetanus in both mother and baby Note: Part of India’s national immunisation programme
- TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) When: 27–36 weeks Why: Protects newborns from whooping cough Note: Safe to repeat in each pregnancy
- Flu (Influenza) When: Any time during pregnancy (best after 12 weeks) Why: Prevents serious flu-related complications Note: Strongly encouraged
- COVID-19 When: Any trimester Why: Reduces risk of severe illness and complications Note: Covaxin and Covishield are approved in India
According to Dr Salunkhe, despite strong recommendations, vaccine hesitancy remains a challenge. “Fear of miscarriage or harm to the baby can prevent women from getting vaccinated. “It’s essential that doctors listen to these concerns with empathy and explain the science clearly,” says Dr Salunkhe.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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