The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is strongly recommending that all expectant mothers receive both the flu and whooping cough vaccines during their pregnancies. Alarmingly, only 35% of pregnant women are currently following this advice, with only half opting for either vaccine.
Flu and Whooping Cough Vaccines
The CDC advises that the flu vaccine can be administered at any point during pregnancy, while the whooping cough vaccine (Tdap) should ideally be given early in the third trimester for each new pregnancy. Research indicates that many women decline the flu shot due to misconceptions about its effectiveness. Similarly, some women are unaware that a new Tdap vaccine is required for every pregnancy. Concerns about safety for their unborn child also contribute to vaccine hesitancy. Notably, 25% of surveyed women reported that their healthcare providers did not discuss vaccination options with them.
Misinformation and Safety
Dr. Emily Carter, an obstetrician and gynecologist, highlighted the prevalence of misinformation regarding the flu vaccine. A study from 2011, which improperly linked the flu shot to miscarriages, has been misinterpreted by anti-vaccine advocates despite subsequent research involving over 1,200 women showing no correlation between the vaccine and miscarriage.
Importance of Vaccination
It’s crucial to note that both the flu and whooping cough vaccines are safe for pregnant women, and they provide essential protection for newborns until they are old enough to receive their own vaccinations—two months for whooping cough and six months for the flu. The CDC states that vaccinating during pregnancy can reduce the risk of hospitalizations in infants due to influenza by 72%, while the Tdap vaccine lowers the risk of whooping cough-related hospitalizations by an impressive 91%. Whooping cough can be deadly for infants, with a significant percentage of fatalities occurring in babies under two months of age.
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
Ultimately, vaccines serve as the most effective means of safeguarding your child. If you have questions or concerns, consult with your healthcare provider. For further information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this excellent resource. You can also explore more about home insemination options at this blog post.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ensuring that you and your baby are protected through vaccination is vital for a healthy pregnancy and newborn life.