Can Pregnant Women Receive Travel Vaccinations?

Travelling while pregnant can be an adventure filled with excitement and questions. Many expecting mums wonder about staying safe and healthy, especially when it comes to travel vaccinations.

As you prepare for your journey, it's important to consider how travelling might affect you and your baby. In this blog, we'll discuss whether pregnant women should travel, what vaccinations are recommended to them and whether they can receive travel vaccinations.

Is it Advisable to Travel During Pregnancy?

Flying, driving, or sailing—each mode of transportation has its own considerations for pregnant women.

Flying, for instance, is generally safe, but it's crucial to consult your healthcare provider before booking any flights. Airlines may have policies regarding pregnant passengers, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy. Additionally, long-distance travel carries a slight risk of blood clots, so it's important to stay hydrated and move around regularly.

Car travel poses similar concerns, with an emphasis on taking breaks to stretch and move around. Wearing compression stockings and ensuring proper seat belt placement can help relieve discomfort and reduce the risk of injury.

For sailing, especially on longer journeys or cruises, it's essential to check with the ferry company for their policies regarding pregnant passengers. Facilities for dealing with pregnancy-related issues and medical services at docking ports should also be considered.

Are Vaccines Advisable During Pregnancy?

When you're pregnant, the kind of vaccine you get is important. Some vaccines have live viruses, like the MMR vaccine. Usually, it's better to wait until after your baby is born before getting these vaccines because they might have risks for your baby. There isn't proof that these vaccines cause birth defects, but it's better to be cautious.

However, sometimes, if the chance of getting sick is bigger than the risk of the vaccine, doctors might suggest getting vaccinated during pregnancy. Live vaccines include those for diseases like-

1.    Tuberculosis

2.    Measles

3.    Mumps

4.    Rubella

5.    Oral polio

6.    Oral typhoid

7.    Yellow fever

Talk to your midwife, or GP, or visit our travel clinic for personalised advice about vaccines while you're pregnant.

What Vaccines Are Recommended in Pregnancy?

Certain vaccines are recommended during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the unborn child. These include-

1.    Influenza (Flu) Vaccine

The influenza vaccine, commonly known as the flu shot, helps protect against the flu virus. It's especially crucial during pregnancy because expecting mothers are at higher risk of complications from the flu. The vaccine works by prompting the body to develop antibodies against specific strains of the flu virus, reducing the chances of getting sick. By receiving the flu vaccine during pregnancy, mothers not only safeguard their own health but also pass on some protection to their newborns, who are too young to be vaccinated.

2.    Whooping Cough Vaccine

The whooping cough vaccine, also called the pertussis vaccine, shields against whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection. Pregnant women are encouraged to get vaccinated during each pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 36 weeks, to pass on protection to their babies. Whooping cough can be severe in newborns, often leading to hospitalisation or even death. By getting vaccinated, mothers can help prevent whooping cough in their infants during the vulnerable early months of life, when they are most susceptible to serious complications.

3.    Coronavirus (COVID-19) Vaccine

The coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine provides protection against the COVID-19 virus, which has caused a global pandemic. While pregnant women were initially advised to consult their healthcare providers before getting vaccinated, recent data suggests that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective during pregnancy. Vaccination not only reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation for pregnant individuals but also offers some immunity to their babies.

Get Travel Vaccinations at Pearl Chemist Group

Travelling during pregnancy requires thoughtful consideration and planning. While it's generally safe to travel, certain precautions should be taken, especially regarding vaccinations. Considering travel clinic services ensures that expecting mothers receive personalised advice based on their health status and travel plans.

By staying informed and proactive, pregnant women can enjoy their travels while prioritising the health and well-being of themselves and their babies. For reputable travel clinic services in Wandsworth, Wimbledon, Tooting, Banstead, Earlsfield, Epsom, and London, schedule a visit at Pearl Chemist Group.  Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring your health and safety, wherever your travels may take you.