29/05/2025
The Tdap vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and acellular Pertussis) is strongly recommended during every pregnancy, regardless of prior vaccination history.
> Why is Tdap important during pregnancy?
- Protects the newborn from pertussis (whooping cough), which can be life-threatening in young infants.
- Helps pass protective antibodies to the baby through the placenta.
- Newborns can't receive their own DTaP vaccine until 2 months old, so maternal vaccination is crucial in this window.
> When should pregnant women get the Tdap vaccine?
- Between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation (preferably earlier in that window).
- This timing maximizes the antibody transfer to the baby.
> IS IT SAFE?
- Yes. Tdap is safe during pregnancy and has been extensively studied.
- It does not contain live bacteria, so there's no risk of causing illness in the mother or fetus.
- Common side effects are mild: sore arm, fatigue, or low-grade fever.
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