Vaccination before pregnancy

If caught during pregnancy some infections can lead to congenital defects in babies such as developmental delay, heart diseases, hearing impairments, sight problems, scarring and even death. Making sure you are up to date with your vaccinations, and getting any vaccinations you might need before pregnancy can prevent some of the most serious threats to your baby.

Rubella

Rubella (German measles) is a viral infection. It is usually a mild disease that causes a rash and swelling in healthy individuals. However, if someone gets rubella during the first three months of pregnancy, it is more likely to lead to severe disease and is very likely to result in miscarriage or a baby born with congenital anomalies known as congenital rubella syndrome (CRS).

In 20% of cases, rubella infection during the first three months of pregnancy results in miscarriage. 

Congenital rubella syndrome causes complications in 85% of babies whose mothers had rubella during the first three months of pregnancy. These complications include deafness, cataracts, heart defects, brain disorders, developmental delays and organ damage. Children born with CRS can develop diabetes and thyroid disorders later in life. 

People who plan to become pregnant should check their vaccination status, as they cannot be vaccinated against rubella during pregnancy. It is important to consult with a doctor and national vaccination guidelines. 

Chickenpox

While 90% of chickenpox (varicella) infections occur in children, the effects of the virus are more severe in adults. If someone catches chickenpox during pregnancy, it can cause severe disease and increase the risk of miscarriage, congenital varicella syndrome, or neonatal varicella if the baby is born at the time of an active infection. 

Congenital varicella syndrome causes severe, lifelong physical and intellectual disabilities as well as skin problems.

Vaccination can prevent chickenpox and its complications. If a person has not had chickenpox or been vaccinated against it, they should consult their doctor before becoming pregnant as well as their national vaccination guidelines.