Flu Vaccine in Pregnancy: Evidence-Based Risks and Benefits

The flu is a contagious disease caused by the influenza virus. In most healthy adults, flu symptoms are typically mild and resolve within about a week. However, during pregnancy, the body's heightened inflammatory response can increase the risk of complications. To reduce these risks and provide passive immunity to babies, healthcare professionals recommend that pregnant women receive the flu vaccine during flu season. Deciding whether to get vaccinated during pregnancy can be a challenging task, as it involves weighing all of the potential risks and benefits. Additionally, you have choices regarding the type of flu vaccine and the timing of administration. This episode reviews the research and considerations for making an informed decision about the flu vaccine during pregnancy.

This episode is up to date for the 2025-26 flu season.

Full article and resources for this episode: https://pregnancypodcast.com/fluvaccine/

Thank you to the brands that power this podcast:

The VTech V-Hush Stroller Rocker is a portable device that features a mechanical rocking mechanism to gently rock your baby’s crib or stroller to promote better sleep on the go. Plus it has a built-in amber night light, a rechargeable battery, soothing sounds, white noise, and sweet lullabies. Soothe your baby to sleep anywhere with the VTech V-Hush Stroller Rocker. Check out the Stroller Rocker and save 20% with the code VTPODCAST20 at https://pregnancypodcast.com/strollerrocker

The Pregnancy Survival Kit from 8 Sheep Organics includes a set of four handcrafted products that help with common pregnancy pains like pregnancy insomnia, restless legs, lower back and hip pains, leg cramps, swollen and achy legs and feet, and stretch marks. All 8 Sheep products come with a 100-day Happiness Guarantee. You can try it completely risk-free for 100 days! If you feel they have not worked for you, or if you’re not 100% happy with your purchase, simply send them an email and they will get you a refund, no questions asked. For a limited time only, you can get the 8 Sheep Pregnancy Survival Kit at $30 off, with free shipping within the US. Plus, save an additional 10% off at https://pregnancypodcast.com/8sheep/

Get More from the Pregnancy Podcast

See all discounts exclusive for Pregnancy Podcast listeners: https://pregnancypodcast.com/resources

Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium for ad-free episodes, full access to the back catalog, and a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book: https://pregnancypodcast.com/premium

Follow your pregnancy week-by-week with the 40 Weeks podcast. Learn how your baby grows, what’s happening in your body, what to expect at prenatal appointments, and get tips for dads and partners: https://pregnancypodcast.com/week

For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website: https://pregnancypodcast.com