Vaccines in Pregnancy
Tetanus, Diphteria, and Pertussis (TDaP)
Recommended to be received between 27 and 32 weeks
WHAT IS IT?
The TDaP vaccine is an immunization that protects against three serious bacterial diseases: tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (also known as whooping cough which is a highly contagious respiratory disease known for uncontrollable, violent coughing). It is recommended in each pregnancy for the Pertussis portion of the vaccine.
WHY IS IT GIVEN?
The TDaP vaccine is recommended during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the newborn from whooping cough.
Infants are most vulnerable to whooping cough in the first few months of life, and the vaccine provides 90% protection from the bacteria until they can be vaccinated themselves.
Maternal Immunity: Helps prevent the mother from contracting and spreading whooping cough.
HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?
The TDaP vaccine is given as a single injection during the third trimester of each pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 32 weeks. This timing helps maximize the antibody response passed to the baby.
BENEFITS
Newborn Protection: Provides the baby with antibodies to help protect against whooping cough until they receive their own vaccinations.
Maternal Health: Protects the mother from contracting whooping cough and potentially spreading it to the baby or others.
Community Protection: Helps reduce the overall prevalence of whooping cough in the community.
ARE THERE REASONS NOT TO GIVE IT?
The TDaP vaccine is generally safe for most pregnant individuals, but certain considerations include:
Allergic Reactions: Individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions to any component of the TDaP vaccine should discuss this with their Midwife.
ALTERNATIVES
There are no direct alternatives to the TDaP vaccine for preventing whooping cough, but additional precautions can be taken:
Cocooning Strategy: Encourage vaccination for family members and caregivers who will be in close contact with the newborn to create a protective environment.
Hygiene Practices: Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, to reduce the risk of infection.
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Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Administered during RSV season (typically Nov - March)
RSV is a common virus that causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. While it often leads to mild, cold-like symptoms in healthy adults and older children, it can cause serious illness in infants, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions.
In Ontario, several immunization options are available, though Public Health recommends Beyfortus over Abrysvo due to it’s slightly higher efficacy of preventing severe disease:
Infants and Young Children: The province offers Beyfortus™ (nirsevimab), a monoclonal antibody that provides passive immunity to infants, including those born during or entering their first RSV season.
Pregnant Individuals: Abrysvo™ (RSVpreF) is a vaccine given between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy to help protect newborns by passing antibodies before birth.
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Covid-19
Pregnant individuals are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, including complications such as preterm birth, stillbirth, and the need for intensive care. Vaccination with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna) during pregnancy is safe and effective, offering significant protection against these risks.
Receiving the vaccine during pregnancy not only safeguards the mother but also provides passive immunity to the baby. Antibodies generated by the vaccine pass through the placenta, offering the newborn protection against COVID-19 in the early months of life.
For more information, click here.