March of Dimes: If you're pregnant, you should get a flu shot

Flu season is upon us and if you're pregnant, the flu can be particularly dangerous. The March of Dimes makes the following statement on their website regarding flu shots for expectant moms:

Flu shots are safe at any time during pregnancy. Almost all women who will be pregnant during flu season (November through March) should get a flu shot. Don’t use the nasal flu mist vaccine because it’s not meant for pregnant women. It’s best to get the flu shot.

You should not have the flu shot if:

• You have certain health conditions - talk to your doctor
• You are allergic to eggs

They issued a press release today about the flu shot recommendations for expecting moms that is full of good info. "The flu vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective. As an added bonus, during pregnancy, mothers pass on their immunity, protecting babies in those early months of life," said Dr. Alan R. Fleischman, March of Dimes medical director. "We urge all pregnant women, and women who expect to become pregnant, to get their influenza immunization because the flu poses a serious risk of illness and even death during pregnancy." Last winter, 50% of pregnant women had the flu shot, a huge improvement over the previous year. March of Dimes recommends the flu shot for expectant moms for the following reasons:

• Pregnancy increases the risk of complications of flu, including bacterial pneumonia and dehydration
• Pregnancy can change a woman's immune system, as well as affect her heart and lungs

If you're uncertain whether the flu shot is a good idea, please talk to your doctor. More on the flu shot and pregnancy Expectant moms who get flu shot have lower chance of preterm birth Flu vaccine improves maternal and outcomes