Safe Start: Vaccination During Pregnancy

















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As a (future) mother, you want nothing more than to protect your baby. And it can be done right from the womb. We spoke to Dr. Isabelle Dehaene, a gynecologist at the University of Szegen, about why vaccination during pregnancy is a smart choice.

“Vaccinations play an important role in protecting both mother and baby,” begins Dr. Deheny. “They reduce the risk of serious complications during pregnancy. In addition, the antibodies that the mother produces after vaccination are passed to the baby through the placenta. “In this way, the baby already gets a protective shield against diseases in the womb.”








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Multiple vaccinations are recommended.





One of the most important vaccinations against whooping cough. “Whooping cough is a contagious respiratory disease that can be life-threatening for infants,” Dr. Deheny emphasizes. “That’s why we recommend the DTP vaccine, which also protects against diphtheria and tetanus. This vaccine is best given between the 24th and 32nd week of pregnancy.

Influenza is another illness that can have serious consequences. “The last thing you want as a pregnant woman is to end up in intensive care. Influenza can lead to premature birth or low birth weight and can cause miscarriage or affect the baby’s development due to high fever,” says Dr. Dehen. “That’s why we recommend pregnant women get the flu vaccine in the fall or winter.”

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New: Protection against RSV





In addition, there is the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common cause of serious respiratory infections in young children. “In children, this can mean hospitalization,” says Dr. Dehen. “By getting vaccinated as a pregnant woman (between weeks 28 and 36) if you give birth during the RSV season, from October to March, you produce antibodies that prevent serious RSV infections. This vaccine is expensive: it costs €185 and is currently not reimbursed.”

Fortunately, there is another, cheaper way to protect your baby from RSV. “It is done with antibodies that are given directly to your baby shortly after birth. This vaccination will cost you much less with a personal contribution of just €12.10,” explains Dr. Dehaene. “We also have more experience with this method, as we have been using it for years with premature babies.”





Vaccines: Effective and Safe





A common question is whether vaccines are safe during pregnancy. “The vaccines we recommend have been in use for a long time and are safe,” Dr. Dehaeney reassures. “Since pregnant women have been given the pertussis and influenza vaccines, doctors have clearly seen far fewer deaths and serious illnesses. The vaccines are closely monitored by health authorities to ensure they are safe for both mother and baby.”

Another area of ​​concern is the substances in vaccines, such as aluminum. “Aluminum is added to vaccines to make them more effective. However, the amount is so small that it is negligible compared to what we consume daily in food and drink. “So having a baby in the tummy is not dangerous,” explains Dr. Deheny. “I understand that some people have questions about vaccinations – as a mother, you simply want the best for your baby. But it is definitely a wise choice. The diseases that you are vaccinated against are much more dangerous than the vaccines themselves.”

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Want to have kids?





Then check before pregnancy whether your basic vaccinations are up to date. You can do this at www.mijngezondheid.be.
More information about vaccinations? Go to www.allesovervaccineren.be or listen to the podcast “Doorprikt – Doubts and questions about vaccinations answered”.






























Source: Flemish Government Campaign

Last updated: August 2024


















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Megan Vasquez

"Creator. Coffee buff. Internet lover. Organizer. Pop culture geek. Tv fan. Proud foodaholic."

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