Did you know there are only two vaccines recommended during pregnancy? Influenza (flu) and Tdap vaccines. We want to help keep you and your baby safe from potentially deadly diseases – and the Tdap vaccine is a great place to start.
What is Tdap?
The Tdap vaccine protects your body against three dangerous diseases: tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. By receiving the vaccine while pregnant, you will keep your baby protected against these serious infections.
Why do I need the Tdap vaccine?
The CDC and ACOG recommend the Tdap vaccination during your pregnancy, in an effort to keep both you and your baby safe. Tetanus causes muscle tightness and stiffness throughout your body, making it impossible to open your mouth, swallow, or even breathe. Diphtheria creates a thick coating in the back of your throat, which can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems. Pertussis, or whooping cough, is prevalent in Texas. It creates coughing spells so severe it can be difficult to catch your breath.
For newborns, pertussis can be extremely dangerous, and even deadly. It’s important to give your baby the protection they need at the most vulnerable stage of their life.
When should I get vaccinated?
Doctors will administer the vaccine at any point during your pregnancy, however, the ACOG recommends the vaccination during your third trimester (between 27 and 36 weeks). This will provide your baby with the most protection until they receive the pertussis vaccine at 2 months of age.
What if I already received the Tdap vaccine during a previous pregnancy?
In order to provide the highest level of protection for each of your babies, the CDC recommends the vaccination during each of your pregnancies.
If I received a Tdap vaccine early in my pregnancy, do I need to get vaccinated again during my third trimester?
If you’ve already been vaccinated during this pregnancy, there is no need to get it twice.
To learn more about the Tdap vaccine, check out the resources from the ACOG here and the CDC here.
Contact our office at (972) 538-2100 with any questions you may have about the Tdap or your pregnancy. Dr. Axline has been a trusted obgyn in the Flower Mound area for over 20 years. Learn more about his obstetric care.
