Flu vaccination during pregnancy

The flu is especially dangerous during pregnancy and in the early postpartum period. In severe cases and in the absence of timely treatment, it can lead to spontaneous miscarriage.

The most effective way to protect against the flu today is vaccination. Vaccination is especially recommended for women who have diseases of the lungs or cardiovascular system, such as bronchial asthma, frequent bronchitis, hypertension or heart defects, in addition, vaccination is necessary for everyone suffering from diabetes. In 2010, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists published recommendations according to which vaccination of pregnant women during the flu epidemic can be carried out at any time. In our country, there are recommendations according to which pregnant women are vaccinated only in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters.

After 12 weeks of pregnancy, the fetus has already formed all the systems and organs, so the flu cannot cause malformations, but, nevertheless, it is dangerous for the expectant mother and baby. Women who have had the flu in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters have an increased risk of premature birth, fetoplacental insufficiency, intrauterine hypoxia and fetal growth retardation syndromes may occur.

The vaccine remains effective throughout pregnancy, and immunity from influenza is transmitted to the child in utero and persists for the first 6 months of life (it is during this period that infants cannot be vaccinated against influenza). Contraindications for vaccination are acute infectious diseases, exacerbation of allergies, and allergy to chicken protein, since the vaccine is based on egg white. Minor side effects may occur after vaccination: redness at the injection site, itching, swelling, and rash. They usually resolve on their own within 2-3 days.

At the first signs of malaise, contact your doctor immediately – it is important to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the right treatment as soon as possible.

At high temperatures (above 38.5 C), you can use paracetamol-based drugs on your own. The maximum daily dosage is 3 grams. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.) are prohibited for pregnant women.

During pregnancy, it is possible to take antiviral drugs, the so-called neurominidase inhibitors. They are effective if you start using them within 48 hours after the first symptoms of the disease appear. These medications must be prescribed by your doctor.

Independent use of folk remedies is not recommended.

Our obstetricians and gynecologists talk in detail about which drugs can and cannot be used during pregnancy in the framework of Mom's schools.