Incorporating immunization services into reproductive health care

Vaccine-preventable infections are common in adults and associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Since 2005, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has released more than 15 recommendations governing the use of new vaccines, as well as recommendations for regimen changes for use of older ones, in adults. Understanding these changes and incorporating them into practice is essential to protect adults from vaccine-preventable infections. Because many women receive care in obstetric and gynecologic practices, integrating these services into reproductive health care provides an opportunity to offer vaccination to many women who otherwise might not be offered these recommended vaccines.