Immunizations during pregnancy: How, when and why.

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Maternal immunization offers crucial protection for both pregnant individuals and their developing fetuses against various pathogens.
• Vaccinations during pregnancy are categorized into routine recommendations, those for specific medical indications, and those to be avoided due to potential harm.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review literature and guidelines on immunizations during pregnancy.
• To demonstrate the benefits and risks associated with different vaccines in pregnancy.
• To evaluate vaccine effectiveness and determine optimal vaccination timing.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a comprehensive literature review using keywords: immunization, vaccine, pregnancy, influenza, pertussis, safety, and efficacy.
• Gathered and analyzed available guidelines on vaccination practices during pregnancy.

Main Results:

• Vaccines are generally permissible during pregnancy if benefits exceed risks.
• Routine recommendations include Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis) and inactivated influenza vaccines.
• Live attenuated virus vaccines (e.g., LAIV influenza, MMR, Varicella, Zoster, BCG, smallpox) are contraindicated during pregnancy.

Conclusions:

• Obstetricians and gynecologists must be knowledgeable about vaccination indications in pregnancy.
• While coverage for routine vaccines has improved, further efforts are needed to increase vaccination rates among pregnant women.
• Vaccination decisions should prioritize maternal and fetal well-being, balancing benefits against potential risks.