My workplace expects us to get several vaccines regularly. But I'm pregnant and worried these might not be safe for my baby. Should I be concerned? – Emma It's best to get vaccines before pregnancy when possible, but some can be given while a woman is pregnant. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone, including pregnant women, during flu season. In fact, it's extra important for pregnant women because the vaccine helps protect a mother and her baby from the flu in the baby's first year of life. The flu vaccine comes in two forms: the flu shot (injected with a needle) and the nasal spray (a mist sprayed into the nostrils). Pregnant women should only get the flu shot. It's made with a killed flu virus, so won't affect the fetus. The nasal spray contains a live weakened form of the virus and isn't safe for moms-to-be. The Tdap vaccine (against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) is recommended for all pregnant women in the second half of each pregnancy, no matter if they've gotten it before or when they last got it. This is due to a rise in whooping cough infections, which can be fatal in newborns who haven't yet had their routine vaccinations. Some vaccines should not be given to pregnant women, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR); human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine; and chickenpox (varicella) vaccine. Before you get any vaccines during pregnancy, check with your doctor to make sure they're right for you. Back to Articles Related Articles Pregnancy & Newborn Center Advice and information for expectant and new parents. Read More Medical Care During Pregnancy The sooner in pregnancy good care begins, the better for the health of both moms and their babies. Here's what to expect. Read More A Week-by-Week Pregnancy Calendar Our week-by-week illustrated pregnancy calendar is a detailed guide to all the changes taking place in your baby - and in you! Read More Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine? The flu vaccine is a good idea for all families. It does not cause the flu, and it helps keep kids and parents from getting sick. Read More Staying Healthy During Pregnancy During your pregnancy, you'll probably get advice from everyone. But staying healthy depends on you - read about the many ways to keep you and your baby as healthy as possible. Read More How Vaccines Help (Video) Vaccines help keep kids healthy, but many parents still have questions about them. Get answers here. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.