Vaccination during pregnancy can protect both the mother and the baby, because antibodies pass to the baby and give protection in the first months of life. In general, inactivated vaccines, such as the flu shot and the Tdap vaccine (which protects against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough), are recommended and considered safe. Live vaccines, such as MMR and chickenpox, are usually avoided during pregnancy because of a theoretical risk to the baby, and are better given before conception or after delivery. The right vaccines and timing depend on your health, your vaccination history and the stage of pregnancy. If you are planning a pregnancy, review your vaccination record with your doctor beforehand. Never skip or delay vaccines on the basis of social media claims, and ask your gynaecologist before taking any vaccine during pregnancy.
