Vaccinations help protect against certain types of diseases by using weakened or dead bacteria and viruses that enter the body through injection, nasal spray, or pills. Vaccines usually contain a small portion of the bacteria or virus in a mitigated but viable or dead form. For example, the chickenpox (chickenpox) vaccine is an injection that includes highly weakened particles of the chickenpox virus. The virus in a vaccine is usually not strong enough to cause infection, but it can stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies that can protect a person from future infections.
Why should I think about vaccinations when I am interested in the issue of conception?
Vaccination is designed to help prevent serious complications during the period of gestation. For example, if an unvaccinated mother becomes infected with rubella during pregnancy, this can lead to miscarriage or serious birth defects in the unborn child. A common viral infection such as influenza often also negatively affects both the mother and the child. Getting the flu during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, premature birth, pneumonia in the expectant mother, or even death. Vaccination against these and other infections before pregnancy can save the expectant mother from getting an infection or prevent its serious consequences.
When is the best time to get vaccinated?
Some types of vaccination, for example, against hepatitis A or B, as well as the influenza virus, can be carried out even during pregnancy. It is worth remembering that vaccinations against chickenpox or rubella contain weakened but live versions of viruses / bacteria, and they are best done one to three months before pregnancy. In any case, we advise you to consult with your doctor to make the right decision about getting the necessary vaccinations.
What are the side effects of vaccination?
Most people experience virtually no side effects after being vaccinated. However, sometimes after the vaccine is given, the patient may experience redness or swelling of the skin or muscle pain at the site of the intramuscular injection.
If you are allergic to certain drugs, certain foods, or other substances, talk to your doctor before getting vaccinated because some vaccines may contain them.
I am taking corticosteroids to treat a medical condition I have. Can I get vaccinated in this case?
Some vaccinations are not recommended for patients taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system. Be sure to discuss your situation with your doctor individually. In consultation with a specialist, you must list all the drugs that you took before deciding to get vaccinated.
Soon I am planning a trip to Asia / Africa and at the same time trying to get pregnant. Should I get vaccinated?
Some diseases, such as jaundice or malaria, are more common outside of Russia. Certain viruses and infections can cause serious health problems in anyone, especially pregnant women. Some of the exotic vaccines are safe for use by pregnant women as well as women trying to get pregnant. But the advisability of vaccinations should certainly be discussed with a doctor who deals with the issue of vaccination of travelers.
Can vaccines cause autism or birth defects?
Currently, there is no medical evidence that vaccination can cause autism or other diseases in children whose mothers have been vaccinated. Rather, on the contrary, the lack of proper vaccination can lead to serious health problems for both the mother and the baby.
