Vaccination of pregnant women

What are the mandatory and optional immunizations for pregnant women and their schedules?

In Brazil, vaccination of pregnant women, postpartum and newborns is a topic of much discussion and concern.

In recent years, the medical facilities in Florianópolis that cooperate with us have been actively informing expectant mothers about the importance of vaccinations. Vaccination helps to protect not only the health of the mother, but also contributes to the immunity of the newborn.

In our maternity hospitals, doctors and nurses are skilled in this area. They make sure that pregnant women receive all the necessary vaccines, such as against influenza and whooping cough, which help prevent complications. At the same time, a system of health monitoring for both mom and baby is maintained during the postpartum period, including the necessary immunizations for newborns.

Nevertheless, society is divided in its opinion on vaccines.

Some moms voice concerns and prefer to remain on the side of caution. That's why doctors give talks to explain the benefits of vaccination and dispel myths.

It is important to remember that immunization is not only a personal choice, but also a contribution to the health of the entire community.

Leading clinics in Brazil continue to raise awareness of the importance of vaccination for the health of expectant and newborn children, creating a safer and healthier environment for all.

What vaccines do pregnant women need?

Several vaccines are recommended for pregnant women to help protect both them and their future children. Here are the main ones:

Flu vaccine - recommended every year, especially during flu season, to prevent complications.
Pertussis vaccine (TDaP) - should be given in the second or third trimester to protect the newborn.
Tetanus and diphtheria (TD) vaccine - re-vaccination is recommended every 10 years and in certain cases may be necessary during pregnancy (the Pertussis vaccine contains the TD vaccine)
COVID-19 vaccination - Many health organizations recommend that vaccination of pregnant women is possible and can help prevent serious complications associated with the infection.
Hepatitis B (if risk factors are present) - may be recommended to protect mother and child.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (Bronchiolitis) - The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine is an injection that protects against lower respiratory tract infections caused by RSV. It should be given between 32 and 36 weeks to prevent serious disease at newborn.

It is important to consult your doctor for individualized recommendations and to find out which vaccines are needed in your specific case.

What is the 3-in-1 vaccine for pregnant women?

The 3-in-1 vaccine for pregnant women most commonly refers to the TDaP vaccine, which combines protection against three diseases: Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis

This vaccine helps protect pregnant women from these diseases and also provides protection for newborns because the antibodies are passed through the placenta.

A high level of protection against pertussis is especially important because the disease can be dangerous for infants. It is recommended that the vaccine be given in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Be sure to discuss the need for this vaccination with your doctor.

What month of pregnancy is the TT injection to be given?

Tetanus and diphtheria vaccine (TD or TT) is usually recommended at the following times:

If a woman does not have a current vaccination the vaccine can be administered at any gestational age, but it is better in the 2nd or 3rd trimester to minimize risks to the fetus.

If the last immunization was less than 10 years ago, re-vaccination is usually not necessary, but it is worth consulting your doctor.

What is the monthly injection given in pregnancy?

Monthly injections are not usually given during pregnancy. However, there are some situations in which regular injections may be needed:

Hepatitis B. If a woman has not been vaccinated before pregnancy, she may need to be vaccinated.
Preventive medications. For example, women with certain diseases or conditions (such as thrombophilia) may be prescribed anticoagulant injections to prevent blood clots.
Progesterone preparations. In some cases, progesterone injections may be prescribed to support pregnancy.

It is important to discuss all medical recommendations with your doctor to determine which injections are right for you!

What vaccine is not administered during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, it is recommended that certain vaccines be avoided because they may pose a risk to the fetus.

Such vaccines should include:

Live vaccines. Such as rubella, mumps, and measles (MMR) vaccine or yellow fever vaccine. These may contain live viruses and are not recommended during pregnancy.
Vaccine against variola (smallpox): Live vaccine, also contraindicated.
Some flu vaccines. It is important to use only inactivated vaccines, as live forms are not safe.

Each situation is different, so it's always best to consult your doctor before vaccinating during pregnancy!

What supplements should be avoided during pregnancy?

It is important to be careful with supplements during pregnancy, as some of them can affect the health of both mom and baby.

Additives to avoid include:

Vitamin A (in high doses). Excess can be toxic and lead to fetal abnormalities. It is better to get vitamin A from food (like carrots and spinach).
Herbal supplements. Many herbs can have side effects or interact with medications. It is best to consult a doctor before taking any herbs.
Iron and calcium in high doses. Although these minerals are important, an excess of them can cause problems. It is best to stick to the recommended doses.
Melatonin. Used to regulate sleep, but its safety during pregnancy has not been sufficiently studied.
Coenzyme Q10 and other antioxidants in high doses. Their effects on pregnancy have not been fully studied.

Always consult your doctor before starting any supplements!

Does the immune system weaken during pregnancy?

Yes, the immune system does undergo changes during pregnancy. This does not mean that it "weakens" in the traditional sense, but it adapts to:

Protect the fetus. The immune system works to avoid rejecting a developing fetus that is partly made up of "unusual" (to the mother's body) antigens.
Balancing the defense. The levels of some immune responses may be lowered to prevent excessive inflammatory reactions.

These changes make pregnant women more vulnerable to certain infections, so it's important to monitor your health, take precautions, and get vaccines on time.

It's always best to consult your doctor for individualized recommendations!

What should I do if I catch a cold during pregnancy?

If you catch a cold during pregnancy, use a few tips that can help you fight the illness:

Rest. Give yourself time to recover. Good sleep and rest will help your body cope with the illness.
Drink plenty of fluids. This will help prevent dehydration and relieve symptoms. It is best to drink water, broths and herbal teas.
Gargle your throat. Warm water with salt can help with a sore throat.
Take safe medicines. Consult your doctor about which over-the-counter medicines are safe to use during pregnancy.
Watch for symptoms. If you develop serious symptoms (such as fever, difficulty breathing, or chest pain), be sure to see a doctor.
Avoid contact. To avoid infecting others, try to stay home and limit contact with people.

Of course, it's always best to consult your doctor for specific recommendations, especially when it comes to your health and your baby's health!

Can I take vitamin C during pregnancy?

Yes, vitamin C can and should be taken during pregnancy! It plays an important role in maintaining good health. Here are some of the benefits:

Immune System Support. Vitamin C helps strengthen the immune system and protects against infections.
Antioxidant. Protects cells from damage and promotes healthy skin.
Improved iron absorption. Helps the body absorb iron from plant sources, which is important for preventing anemia.

The recommended daily allowance of vitamin C for pregnant women is about 85 mg. However, it is always best to consult your doctor before starting any supplements!

Can I take zinc during pregnancy?

Yes, zinc can be taken during pregnancy and is an important mineral for the health of both mother and child.

Forms of zinc:

Zinc gluconate - often used in supplements.
Zinc citrate - well absorbed.
Zinc picolinate - has high bioavailability.

The recommended daily allowance of zinc for pregnant women averages about 11-12 mg per day, depending on country-specific recommendations.

Be sure to discuss with your doctor before starting supplements to determine your individual needs and supplement form.

It is important to take supplements as recommended to avoid overdose.

Can I take vitamin D during pregnancy?

Yes, vitamin D can and is even recommended to take during pregnancy!

Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining the health of the mom and fetal development, particularly in the formation of bones and teeth. It also helps absorb calcium, which is critical for pregnant women.

Our doctors generally recommend 2000-7000 IU (International Units) of vitamin D per day, but dosage may vary depending on your body's vitamin D levels and other factors.

Check vitamin D levels before or early in pregnancy to adjust the dose if necessary.

As always, it's best to consult your doctor before starting any supplements!

When should I stop taking folic acid during pregnancy?

Folic acid (or folate) is an important vitamin that is recommended to take during pregnancy to support healthy fetal development.

When should I stop taking folic acid?

There is an opinion that folic acid intake should be stopped at the stage of the 12th week of pregnancy, when the important period of neural tube formation is completed. But many experts recommend continuing to take folic acid throughout pregnancy. So it is better to trust your doctor.
General rule of thumb. Many doctors advise continuing to take folic acid until the end of the first trimester (12 weeks) or even the end of pregnancy.
Consultation with your doctor. It is always best to discuss your individual needs and recommendations with your doctor, as some cases may require longer appointment times.

Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects and supports overall health during pregnancy.

How is pregnancy vaccination in Florianópolis, Brazil, different from other countries and what's better about it?

Vaccination of pregnant women in Florianopoli hospitals has its own peculiarities, which may differ from practices in other countries.

Some of the key points include:

Vaccination approach. Hospitals in Florianopoli emphasize the vaccination of pregnant women against diseases such as influenza, pertussis and coronavirus. This is due to the high incidence of disease and the serious health risks for mother and child.
Vaccine Availability. Hospitals in Florianopoli are actively implementing vaccination programs and offering free vaccines through the health system, ensuring wide access for pregnant women.
Scientific research. Brazilian authorities rely on local research data to guarantee the safety and efficacy of vaccines for pregnant women, which may be more locally adapted than in other countries.
Information and support. In Florianopoli, there is a strong emphasis on educating pregnant women so that they understand the importance of vaccination and can make informed decisions.

These approaches may be more or less effective than other countries depending on cultural, social and health factors.

Why should foreign women travel to Brazil well in advance of childbirth?

Prepare to meet your baby in a safe environment!

Brazil offers unique opportunities for pregnant women who want to ensure the best possible conditions for themselves and their baby.

Affordable vaccines and health care. The Brazilian health system offers a wide range of vaccinations, including flu and pertussis, to help protect you and your baby.
Comfortable clinics and experienced specialists. Here you will find qualified, multilingual doctors and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure maximum comfort and safety.
Nature and relaxation. Brazil is famous for its picturesque landscapes and amazing beaches! Spend time in a relaxing atmosphere that will help you prepare for your upcoming labor.
Support and community. In Brazil, you will find support groups for expectant mothers where you can share experiences and advice with other women.

Don't miss the opportunity to give yourself and your baby the best in life. Come to Brazil before you give birth and take care of your immunizations with comfort and pleasure!

Vaccination of pregnant women