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Vaccinations for mothers
Why vaccinations in pregnancy are important
Some diseases can harm you or your baby during pregnancy. Vaccines help protect you and your baby from these diseases.
When you are vaccinated, some protection is passed to your baby.
It is important that all adults living with babies (especially babies under six months of age) are up to date with all recommended vaccinations
Vaccines recommended during pregnancy
Whooping cough (pertussis)
- Recommended in every pregnancy
- Best time is between 28–32 weeks (third trimester) but can be given right up until birth
- Partners, grandparents and carers should also get this vaccine
- Protects your baby before they are old enough for their own vaccines
Flu vaccine
- The flu vaccine is also safe and good to get anytime during pregnancy.
- Protects you and your baby from serious flu illness
Check your vaccinations
Some vaccines (like measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox) should be checked before pregnancy or after birth.
Talk to your family doctor to make sure your vaccinations are up to date
Vaccinations for your baby
Why baby vaccinations matter
Vaccinations:
Protect your baby from serious diseases
Help stop diseases spreading in the community
Are carefully tested and safe in Australia
When your baby is born, make sure they get their first vaccines. All vaccines given to Australian children are carefully tested to be sure they are safe and effective before being registered for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
Your baby’s vaccination schedule
Your baby’s vaccination dates are written in their Personal Health Record Book (Blue Book).
When babies are vaccinated
In NSW, vaccinations are recommended at birth, 6 weeks, 4 months, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 4 years.
See the full list of vaccinations for children in NSW here.
Try to vaccinate on time or as close as possible. Even if your baby has a mild cold or runny nose, they can usually still be vaccinated. If they are sick with a fever, wait until they are better.
Helping your baby during vaccinations
Pain and stress
You can help your baby feel calmer by:
- Holding your baby during the injection
- Speaking calmly and reassuring them
- Breastfeeding during or after the injection if possible
- Asking the doctor or nurse to give your baby the vaccination that might hurt the most at the end of the appointment.
- you can ask the health staff about topical anaesthetics (which numb the pain) to use before the injection
- you can also discuss with the doctor or nurse if glucose solution is available or relevant for your baby.
Common side effects after vaccination
Most side effects are mild and short-lasting.
Your baby may:
- Have a fever (over 38.5°C)
- Be unsettled or sleepy
- Have redness, swelling or tenderness where the needle went in
- Have a small hard lump at the injection site (this can last weeks and is normal)
Caring for your baby after vaccination
You can help your baby by:
- Offering extra breastmilk or formula to drink
- Not overdressing them if they are hot
- Using a cold wet cloth on the sore injection area
- Giving paracetamol if needed (check the label or ask your pharmacist)
If your baby is under 3 months old and has a fever, contact your doctor straight away.
Stay up to date with vaccines
Always bring your baby’s personal health record book to appointments
Vaccination records are needed for childcare, preschool and for school enrolment. Contact the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) on 1800 653 809 to check your child’s immunisation history.
There is an app called Save The Date To Vaccinate that reminds you when your baby needs to get their vaccinations.
If you have questions or worries, talk to your family doctor, child and family health nurse, or pharmacist. They are there to help.
Vaccinations are given by:
GPs or family doctors
Aboriginal Medical Services
Some local councils
Some community health centres.
Contact your local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055 to find out what services are available in your area.
