Pregnancy is a time of preparation – for you and your baby. One of the most important things you can do to give your baby the best start in life is to protect them from serious illnesses.
Vaccinations during pregnancy help safeguard both you and your baby, not just during pregnancy but in those critical first weeks after birth when they are most vulnerable.
Why vaccinations in pregnancy matter
When you get vaccinated during pregnancy, you’re not just protecting yourself. You’re also passing on antibodies to your baby – helping them fight off diseases before they’re old enough to be vaccinated themselves.
Vaccines are safe to have during pregnancy and are recommended by the NHS to protect against:
Flu
Flu can be more severe during pregnancy, and catching it can lead to complications for both you and your baby.
The flu vaccine is safe at any stage of pregnancy and offers protection throughout the winter months. It reduces the risk of serious illness and helps protect your baby in their first few months of life.
You can get your free flu vaccine from your GP or a local pharmacy from 1 September 2025
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus)
RSV is a common virus, but it can be serious for babies – especially those under six months old.
By having the RSV vaccine during pregnancy, you’re passing on protection to your baby – helping kick-start their Super Body before they even arrive.
This new vaccine is offered between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. It reduces the risk of your baby developing serious complications from RSV, including bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
You should be contacted by your maternity team before you reach 28 weeks to book you in for the vaccination. However, you can also get the vaccination from your GP or at some local pharmacies.
Whooping cough (pertussis)
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious disease that can be life-threatening for newborns.
Vaccination during pregnancy (ideally from 16 weeks) means your baby is born with protection until they’re old enough for their own vaccines.
Speak to your maternity team about having the vaccination.
Your midwife or GP can help
If you’re unsure which vaccines you need or when to have them, speak to your midwife or GP. They’ll explain what’s recommended and make sure you get the right protection at the right time.
Vaccinations during pregnancy are free, safe, and one of the most effective ways to protect your baby before they’re born.
Patient story
Protect yourself. Protect your baby. Give them the strongest start.