As the air cools (wait, scratch that — this is Florida, after all) and flu season approaches, many expectant mamas may find themselves wondering, Is the flu shot really necessary during pregnancy? There’s already so much to deal with, from fetal monitoring to the dreaded (but important!) glucose test. Honestly, it all matters, and there’s good reason for these tests and doctor visits, including getting the flu vaccine. In fact, it’s one of the most important steps you can take to protect both yourself and your baby.

An average flu season runs from October through May, but those who are pregnant (and in any trimester) should get the flu shot as soon as it is available — ideally before the flu season actually even starts. But if you miss that window, it’s not too late. You can still benefit from the vaccine anytime when the flu is most prevalent. While it’s true that there are many different flu viruses (and yes, they are always changing), each year a new vaccine is made to product against those specific viruses that are most likely to make people sick during the fall, winter, and spring months.

Real talk: It typically takes about two weeks for the flu shot to become fully effective, so the sooner you receive it, the better prepared you will be. And because pregnancy naturally changes your body’s immune system, heart, and lungs (hello, growing baby!), it can make you even more vulnerable to complications and severe illness if you come down with the flu.

Why Expectant Mamas Are at Higher Risk

The influenza virus (aka the flu) is more than just a pesky runny nose and sore throat. The flu can make you very sick, even more so if you get it during or right after pregnancy. While pregnant, your body works hard to support your growing baby, which typically means that your immune system doesn’t work quite the same way it normally does. This makes it harder to fight off infections, including the flu. Expectant mothers are more likely to experience serious complications from the flu, including:

  • Breathing difficulties or severe respiratory issues that could lead to pneumonia, which can be serious, or even deadly.
  • Hospitalization due to high fever (high fevers in the first trimester have also been linked to birth defects and developmental concerns for baby).
  • Dehydration, which can affect both the mother and baby.
  • Increased risk of preterm labor (labor before 37 weeks) or low birth weight.

The Flu Shot Benefits You and Your Baby

The flu vaccine is safe and effective during any trimester of pregnancy — and it does more than just protect you. About two weeks after getting vaccinated, your body produces crucial antibodies that cross over into the placenta and help protect your baby from the flu for the first several months after birth. Because infants under the age of 6 months are too young to receive the flu shot themselves, this is an incredible and easy way to give your little one that early added layer of protection.

Studies show that babies born to vaccinated mothers are less likely to get the flu and, if they do, are less likely to develop severe illness. Getting the flu shot is one of the best gifts you can give your baby before they’re even born.

Protecting Your Whole Family

Along with getting vaccinated yourself, it’s a good idea to encourage your partner, other children, and other close family and friends to get the flu shot, too. This creates a bit of added protection around you and your newborn, lowering the chances of you and baby being exposed to the virus.

Pregnancy is often a period of joy, excitement, and preparation. Protecting yourself with the flu shot is a simple, safe, and effective way to safeguard both your health and your baby’s well-being.

Ask your Beaches OBGYN provider about the flu vaccine at your next visit or make an appointment now.