Vaccination in pregnancy

Vaccination is one of the most effective strategies employed to prevent morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases. Pregnancy is considered to be a time when women have consistent contact with their healthcare providers and it presents an opportunity for providers to review their immunization status and to advocate for appropriate vaccination antepartum and in the immediate postpartum period. All forms of immunization, with the exception of live viral or live bacterial vaccines are generally considered to be safe for administration during pregnancy. It is important that healthcare providers counsel pregnant women about the benefits of receiving the vaccines that are recommended during pregnancy as well as the potential risks to the developing fetus. It is imperative that obstetricians and primary care providers are aware of and implement the vaccination guidelines for women, both during pregnancy and in the postpartum period.