Vaccines in Pregnancy: Protecting You and Your Baby
Vaccines in Pregnancy: Protecting You and Your Baby
In the video below, Dr Tan Eng Kien, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, explains the vaccines commonly recommended during pregnancy, when they are given, and how they help protect both mother and baby.
Pregnancy is a time when many women become understandably more cautious about medications and vaccines. However, certain vaccinations are specifically recommended during pregnancy because they can protect both mother and baby.
During pregnancy, antibodies produced by the mother following vaccination can cross the placenta and provide the baby with protection during the first few months of life, before the baby is old enough to receive some vaccinations directly.
Which vaccines are recommended during pregnancy?
Influenza (flu) vaccine
Pregnant women have a higher risk of becoming seriously unwell from influenza. The influenza vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy and is recommended during pregnancy in Singapore.
As influenza strains change over time, vaccination is generally recommended annually.
Whooping cough (Tdap) vaccine
Whooping cough, or pertussis, can be particularly serious in newborn babies. Vaccination during pregnancy allows maternal antibodies to cross the placenta and helps protect the baby during the vulnerable first weeks and months after birth.
In Singapore, one dose of Tdap is recommended during each pregnancy, between 16 and 32 weeks, regardless of when a previous Tdap vaccination was given.
RSV vaccine
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an important cause of respiratory illness in young babies, including bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Maternal RSV vaccination is now an additional option. In Singapore, Abrysvo® is licensed for use during pregnancy from 32 to 36 weeks, providing antibodies that help protect the baby against RSV disease during the first months after birth.
Are there vaccines that should be avoided during pregnancy?
Yes. Live vaccines, such as the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) and varicella (chickenpox) vaccines, are generally not given during pregnancy. If a woman is found not to be immune, vaccination can usually be arranged after delivery.
A final word
Vaccination recommendations may differ depending on your stage of pregnancy, medical history, previous vaccinations and individual circumstances. If you are unsure which vaccines you need, discuss this with your obstetrician during your antenatal visit.
This article is intended for general patient education and does not replace individual medical advice.
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