Vaccines in Pregnancy

The NHS recommends a small number of vaccines during pregnancy to protect the health of the pregnant person and the baby. 

During pregnancy the immune system is weakened to protect the pregnancy. This means that pregnant people may find it harder to fight infections.

Babies are unable to get vaccinated for the first few months of their life so getting vaccinated during pregnancy will help to pass on protection against infections that could make them seriously ill until they’re able to get vaccinated.

The vaccines recommended during pregnancy are usually inactivated vaccines that do not contain the live version of the virus they protect against. They are safe to have during pregnancy.

Some additional vaccines are suitable to be given during pregnancy (e.g. tetanus). Your GP, midwife, or doctor will be able to advise on which vaccines you need.