Why Flu Shots Are Crucial for Pregnant Women

Why Flu Shots Are Crucial for Pregnant Women

Pregnancy is a time of increased vulnerability, making it crucial for expectant mothers to prioritize their health and well-being. One significant aspect of this is getting the annual flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommend that pregnant women receive the flu vaccine, as it offers essential protection for both the mother and the developing baby.

  1. Increased Risk of Severe Illness: Pregnant women are more likely to suffer severe illness from the flu compared to non-pregnant women. This is due to the changes in the immune system, heart, and lungs during pregnancy. Severe flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), pregnant women who contract the flu are more likely to be admitted to the hospital than non-pregnant women of the same age .
  2. Protection for the Baby: Getting vaccinated during pregnancy not only protects the mother but also provides critical protection for the baby after birth. When a pregnant woman receives the flu shot, she passes on antibodies to her baby, offering immunity for the first few months of life when the baby is too young to receive the vaccine themselves .

When to Get Vaccinated

The best time to get the flu shot is early in the flu season, which typically starts in October and can last until May. However, it is beneficial to get vaccinated as soon as the vaccine becomes available. The CDC advises that it is safe to receive the flu shot at any stage of pregnancy, whether it is the first, second, or third trimester .

How Flu Shots Protect Both Mother and Baby

  1. Preventing Flu-Related Complications: By getting vaccinated, pregnant women can significantly reduce their risk of flu-related complications, such as preterm labor and delivery. Studies have shown that pregnant women who receive the flu vaccine are less likely to deliver prematurely or have a low-birth-weight baby .
  2. Boosting Immune Response: The flu shot boosts the immune response in pregnant women, making it easier for their bodies to fight off the flu virus. This enhanced immune response also contributes to the production of antibodies that are passed on to the baby, providing a form of passive immunity .
  3. Safe for Both Mother and Baby: Extensive research has demonstrated that the flu vaccine is safe for both the mother and the developing baby. The inactivated flu vaccine, which is the type recommended for pregnant women, does not contain live virus and therefore cannot cause the flu .

The flu shot is a crucial component of prenatal care. It offers significant benefits, including protecting the mother from severe illness, reducing the risk of complications, and providing immunity to the newborn. Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare providers to ensure they receive the flu vaccine and safeguard their health and their baby's health throughout the flu season.

Sources

  1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Influenza Vaccination During Pregnancy.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Pregnant Women & Influenza (Flu).
  3. Mayo Clinic. Flu shot in pregnancy: Is it safe?.
  4. National Institutes of Health (NIH). Flu vaccination during pregnancy reduces risk of influenza hospitalization.
  5. World Health Organization (WHO). Influenza vaccination in pregnant women.
  6. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Influenza vaccination during pregnancy: A critical assessment of the benefits for mother and child.
  7. Safety of inactivated influenza vaccine in pregnancy.

 

Self-care ideas for pregnant moms

Self-care ideas for pregnant moms

Francisco Guzman, LMSW, Case worker at LBU Community Clinic

 

Some self-care ideas for pregnant moms include:

  1. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga.
  2. Eating a healthy and well-balanced diet to ensure that both the mother and the baby are getting the proper nutrition.
  3. Getting plenty of rest and sleep, as fatigue can be a common issue during pregnancy.
  4. Practicing stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or massage.
  5. Taking time for oneself to relax and unwind, whether it be through reading, listening to music, or taking a warm bath.
  6. Connecting with other pregnant women or new moms to share experiences and offer support.
  7. Planning ahead and delegating some tasks to others when possible and asking for help when needed.
  8. Scheduling and going to prenatal care appointments, following the guidelines provided by healthcare professional
  9. Taking prenatal vitamin supplement as recommended by healthcare professional
  10. Finding ways to stay active in daily life, whether it’s taking a walk in the park or stretching before bed.

It’s important to note that all self-care ideas are not one-size-fits-all, and that pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or self-care regimen.

If you feel one of your partner may be struggling with thoughts or feelings, please make an appointment at LBU by calling (214) 540-0300.

You're Pregnant! Now what?

Dr. Eduardo Torres, LBU West Dallas

 

Finding out whether or not you are pregnant can be an incredibly exciting, nerve-wracking, and emotional experience. The knowledge that you might be carrying a child can cause a wave of questions and emotions, regardless of whether you have been actively trying to conceive or are caught off guard by the possibility. So how can you be certain? Even though there are a variety of indications and symptoms that could point to pregnancy, a pregnancy test is the only way to be sure.

Here are 5 things you should do after you find you are expecting:

  1. Confirm the pregnancy with your doctor and begin receiving prenatal care, which is essential for the health of both you and your baby.
  2. Start taking your prenatal vitamins immediately if you are not already. Every woman that could potentially become pregnant should be using daily folic acid before conceiving to reduce the risks of miscarriages and fetal anomalies.
  3. Make lifestyle changes: Pregnancy is a time when you will need to make some lifestyle changes to promote a healthy pregnancy, such as quitting smoking, stop using drugs (even marijuana), avoiding alcohol, and avoiding certain foods.
  4. Start researching childbirth and parenting classes: This is a good time to start researching the different options available to you for childbirth education, and parenting classes.
  5. Start planning your pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care; This includes choices such as selecting an obstetrician, selecting a hospital, and making a birth plan.

It is always good to speak with your healthcare provider, they will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Call us today to make an appointment with LBU’s OB Team by calling (214) 540-0300.

For a list of our providers, go to:

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The Top 5 Pregnancy Questions Answered

The top 5 pregnancy questions answered

Congratulations, you’re pregnant! You probably have tons of questions and concerns. This article will help clear up the myths and the fog about preparing for the delivery. Here are the 5 most common pregnancy questions answered.

1. Can I exercise during pregnancy?

Exercise before, after, and during pregnancy can be a great way to keep you and your unborn baby healthy. Moderate exercise during pregnancy is a-okay, as long as you’re not going too extreme in the hot yoga or HIIT workouts. Exercise like strength training and cardio along with yoga is a great combination that can be safe and healthy. Pregnant women who shed weight and sweat are less likely to experience complications like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and preeclampsia. If at any point, exercise feels uncomfortable, contact your doctor.

2. How can I help reduce the risk of birth defects?

Some birth defects can’t be prevented, but you can take measures to avoid certain extreme cases like stillbirth, preterm labor, and other complications. Take heed of these tips to reduce your risk of birth defects:

 A healthy baby is more likely to come with a healthy lifestyle.

3. What prenatal vitamins should I take?

Classic prenatal vitamins and healthy foods are your weapons against disease and defects. Your baby needs essential nutrients that you may not be getting enough of in your daily diet. Your prenatal vitamin needs to have folic acid, iron, and calcium to ensure a healthy baby. Also note that you’re getting enough vitamin D, DHA, and iodine every day. Always discuss with your doctor before taking certain supplements.

4. Can I keep drinking coffee?

Your morning cup of joe can stay. As long as you don’t go above 200 mg or 12 ounces of caffeine, you’ll be alright. The science hasn’t confirmed yet whether caffeine can impact the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth, but it’s definitely safe to have one cup. Be wary of tea, chocolate, and soft drinks.

5. How much kicking should I feel? When should I be concerned?

First-time moms, hear hear! You won’t feel kicking or movement until about 5 months into pregnancy. With a second pregnancy, you’re more likely to feel the movement earlier because it’s more familiar to you. Once the fetus moves in you, you’ll probably feel something daily until around 7 months. If you’re feeling less movement than you believe is normal, check with your ob-gyn or doctor who’s covering your prenatal care.

 

Takeaway

Whatever your concerns or if you have any new supplements to take, always make sure to contact your doctor to ensure it’s safe. Enjoy your pregnancy and maintain a healthy lifestyle to prepare for a safe and healthy delivery. If you’re in the Dallas area, check out Los Barrios Unidos for customized prenatal care.

Our doctors are here to help and answer any questions. To set an appointment, please call (214) 540-0300.