Tetanus vaccine while pregnant

A clinician may recommend a tetanus-containing vaccine as part of routine antenatal protection or wound management. The decision depends on which vaccines you have previously received and whether an injury has allowed bacteria to enter damaged skin. Vaccination helps the immune system recognise tetanus toxin; it does not treat established tetanus.

Tell the clinician that you are pregnant, how far along the pregnancy is, and whether you know your previous vaccine history. A missed record does not mean you should ignore a wound; the team can assess the situation and choose appropriate protection.

For a wound, wash your hands, rinse the area with clean running water, and remove visible dirt without digging into the tissue. Cover it with a clean dressing. Contact a healthcare professional promptly if the wound is deep, punctured, heavily contaminated, caused by an animal or human bite, or difficult to clean.

Do not delay care because you are unsure whether a vaccine is suitable in pregnancy. Bring any immunisation record you have and mention allergies, previous vaccine reactions, immune conditions, or medicines that affect immunity. You can read more about [Tetanus Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/tetanus-vaccination/).

Seek emergency medical help for trouble swallowing, a stiff jaw, painful muscle tightening, severe spasms, breathing difficulty, or rapidly worsening stiffness after a wound. These symptoms need urgent assessment and are not a reason to wait for a routine antenatal appointment.

Ask which tetanus-containing vaccine is being considered, whether your previous doses are documented, and what wound care is needed today. Ask what symptoms should prompt immediate help and how vaccination fits with the rest of your pregnancy care.