Why is immunization important?
Immunization protects against many preventable diseases. Vaccines help strengthen your immune system and build antibodies to help prevent diseases.
Getting immunized is much safer than getting the disease it prevents.
Before trying to get pregnant, check that your immunizations are up-to-date. This will give you the best possible protection throughout pregnancy.
Updating your immunizations before pregnancy is important because some vaccines can’t be given, or aren’t routinely given during pregnancy. Also, during pregnancy, your immune system is weaker so your body doesn’t reject the pregnancy. You’re at greater risk of infection while you’re pregnant so vaccines help protect you during this time.
During pregnancy there’s a higher risk of severe infections for the pregnant person. There’s also risk of infections that harm the growth and health of the developing baby. For example, a person who gets German measles (rubella) in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy has a higher risk of miscarriage or having a baby with a serious disability.
A pregnant person with chickenpox (varicella) can also have more severe disease and pass it on to their baby before birth. The baby can then be born with low birth weight, and eye, skin, limb and brain problems. If the pregnant person is contagious with chickenpox 5 days before to 2 days after their baby is born, the baby can get a very severe infection.
Vaccines have important benefits for everyone. If you haven’t had all of your immunizations, it is never too late for you to catch up. This goes for family members too. It’s just as important for them to be protected- for their health and to help protect you and the pregnancy.
To learn more about immunization before and during pregnancy and for your family members visit AHS Immunization.