Planning to conceive? Here is list of preconception vaccines

Hyderabad: Immunization has proved to be humanity's most powerful public health tool, preventing millions of deaths across the globe every year. Vaccines ensure that our immune systems recognize and fight pathogens before they can cause any disease. Vaccines create a layer of protection not only for individuals but for entire communities.

Several vaccines are now available to prevent diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, mumps, polio, measles, rubella, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rotavirus, diarrhea, among others. The importance of vaccination or immunization is being spread to mother and child for the health and well being of both by the government.

Similarly, the preconception vaccination for women has gained high priority for the past several years. It is crucial to consider the health and potential risks of the mother and future child.

Importance of preconception vaccination

A baby can be harmed due to the consumption of some foods, habits, and medicines even before conception. Given the excitement over conceiving, many women tend to skip or overlook the need for preconception vaccines.

Dr. Radhika Potluri MBBS, MS - OBG Regional Medical Head & Fertility Specialist, Oasis Fertility said, “The preconception period offers a unique opportunity to find your immunization records and review them with your health care professional or doctors. Hence, the preconception vaccination guide becomes essential as it ensures that you're up to date with vaccinations or not”.

Vaccines prevent infections

Vaccines play a significant role in preventing infections and harmful diseases caused by various bacteria and viruses. Such foreign bodies can affect both mother and child.

“Conditions like Zika virus, rubella, chickenpox, and hepatitis can cause major complications during pregnancy, potentially resulting in miscarriages, birth defects, or preterm births”, Dr Radhika said.

Being vaccinated before conception helps lower the risk of these harmful conditions, ensuring a healthier pregnancy and child. Pre-pregnancy immunization creates a protective shield that not only safeguards the mother's health but also provides crucial protection for the developing fetus during its most vulnerable stages of development.

Key vaccinations suggested

Dr Radhika suggested 5 key vaccines during preconception to ensure the safety of mother and child.

Rubella (German Measles)

Rubella is one of the most harmful diseases, which causes severe birth defects if contracted during pregnancy. The rubella vaccine needs to be administered at least one month before trying to conceive, and hence, it is essential to get vaccinated before conceiving.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox during pregnancy can lead to serious complications, such as birth defects and pneumonia.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is another harmful ailment that can be transmitted during pregnancy and childbirth. Prenatal vaccination lowers the risk of transmission and safeguards both the mother and child.

Influenza (Flu)

It is recommended for all women of childbearing age to get a flu shot, especially if conception is planned during flu season. The flu causes severe illness, which could result in complications like early labor.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap)

To protect the unborn child from whooping cough, it is advised to receive the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy. However, receiving the most recent vaccination before becoming pregnant is also advantageous.