Vaccines are categorized into two types:
Inactivated vaccines, like those for influenza and Tdap, contain killed bacteria or viruses that cannot cause disease. Live-attenuated vaccines, such as those for varicella and MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), contain weakened bacteria or viruses that cannot cause disease in healthy individuals, but help your body develop antibodies against that disease. Inactivated vaccines are deemed safe during pregnancy, while live-attenuated vaccines are generally not recommended due to potential risks to the developing fetus.
The advantages of vaccination during pregnancy go beyond the pregnant individual. Vaccinating during pregnancy transfers some antibodies to your baby in utero, providing short-term protection against certain diseases after birth for a few months. Antibodies are also passed to baby through colostrum and breastmilk, providing extra protection against disease. Commonly recommended vaccinations during pregnancy include influenza, COVID-19, and Tdap.
Your healthcare provider will assist in determining your immunization status and help you decide what vaccines are right for you. They may recommend additional vaccines if you have new exposures or are at an increased risk for specific diseases.
For more information on vaccination in pregnancy:
Pregnant and Lactating Persons | immunizecanada
Vaccination in pregnancy: What you need to know Pregnancy Factsheet (immunize.ca)