Risks of the Flu Shot During the First Trimester

According to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation (PAMF), it is espeically dangerous for pregnant women tp contract the flu. The farther along a woman is in her pregnancy, the greater the risk the flu presents. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women get the flu shot, despite the risks.

What Is the Flu?

• Pregnancyinfo.net explains that influenza, referred to as the flu, is a virus that affects the respiratory system. Symptoms of the flu can include cough, sneezing, fatigue, nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, fever and aching muscles. Flu season typically starts in December, but people should start getting flu shots as early as October.

Flu Vaccine

• The strain of the flu virus changes each year, and the vaccine can greatly lower a person's chance of contracting the virus. Pregnant women are in one of the most high-risk groups for contracting the virus, and it could potentially lead to death. Additionally, the virus could lead to pneumonia or bronchitis. However, do not get the shot if you ever had an allergic reaction to it before, have a fever or if you are allergic to eggs.

Risks for Pregnant Women

• According to PAMF, the flu virus is inactive and is believed to be safe for pregnant women. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists believe that the vaccine can be safely administered in all trimesters of pregnancy. However, it is noted that some physicians prefer to wait until after the first trimester. According to Keep Kids Healthy, the risks of the vaccine for any person, -- pregnant or not -- are swelling and soreness at the infection site, potential allergic reactions, fever, malaise and muscle pain.