As the fall approaches, so does flu season. While there is a lot less hype about the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu virus of 2009, pregnant women will still be given the option of receiving the regular flu shot. It is currently recommended that all pregnant women be given the seasonal flu shot by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The nasal vaccine is not recommended.
Pregnancy can lower your immune defenses and make you more susceptible to the flu. But it can also cause you to become more ill if you do get the flu. The flu shot will protect you and your baby from the flu. Your baby's immunity will last up to six months after birth.
As with any treatment or immunization, you should talk to your doctor or midwife about the specifics for you. There are some reasons, like allergies to ingredients in the flu vaccine, that you may not wish to take the flu shot. The conversation with your midwife or doctor will help you make the best decision for you and your baby this flu season.
Other things that you can do to help avoid the flu:
- Wash your hands often
- Avoid people who are ill or have flu-like symptoms
- Breastfeed your baby as your immunities pass to baby
- Wear your baby, so that others aren't able to touch baby
If you do think you're ill, contact your provider. Keep your fever down with medications and stay well hydrated. Don't try to push through it. Rest and take care of yourself to avoid complications like preterm labor and pneumonia.
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