Pregnancy health and immune protection for you and your newborn
Understanding what maternal vaccination means
Maternal vaccination means you receive certain recommended vaccines during pregnancy as part of routine antenatal care. This supports your own immunity and helps protect your baby in the early months of life. It sits alongside healthy eating, regular antenatal checks, and emotional support as part of compassionate, modern pregnancy care.
Why early life protection matters for newborns
Newborn babies arrive with developing immune systems. In the early months, they face a higher risk of serious illness from some infections, and they do not yet receive every childhood vaccine. When illness happens in early infancy, babies often become unwell more quickly, feeding and sleeping can be disrupted, and hospital care is sometimes needed. Extra protection during this early window matters for safety, comfort, and reassurance.
How your protection supports your baby
When you receive certain vaccines during pregnancy, your immune system responds by creating protective antibodies. During pregnancy, some of these antibodies pass through the placenta to your baby. This gives your newborn temporary protection during a vulnerable stage, while they begin building their own immunity after birth and follow the Australian childhood immunisation schedule.
Supporting your health and your household
Vaccination in pregnancy also protects you. Staying well supports energy, recovery, bonding, breastfeeding if you choose it, and daily life with a newborn. It also helps reduce the chance of passing infections to your baby or other household members in close contact. Protection benefits often stretch beyond the individual and support the whole family environment.
Thinking about safety with calm confidence
It is natural to ask whether vaccination is safe during pregnancy. Vaccines recommended in pregnancy undergo careful evaluation and ongoing monitoring in Australia and internationally. Recommendations reflect current evidence and expert guidance. Your personal health history still matters, including allergies, previous reactions, and specific medical conditions. A personalised conversation ensures decisions feel informed, safe, and respectful.
How your GP or midwife guides the conversation
Your antenatal team helps you understand which vaccines are recommended in your pregnancy, when they are best timed, and how they fit with your overall care plan. Bringing your vaccination record supports clearer planning. Asking questions is always welcome. Understanding how maternal vaccination links with your baby’s future immunisations helps everything feel more connected and reassuring.
Why talking with your GP builds confidence and clarity
Vaccination in pregnancy is one way to support the best possible start for both you and your baby. If you feel unsure, curious, or cautious, discussing your thoughts with your GP or midwife helps you receive balanced information in plain English. You deserve care that feels safe, respectful, and supportive of your values.
This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.