Tdap vaccination during pregnancy and whooping cough

Tdap is a vaccine that includes protection against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, the infection also called whooping cough. A maternity team considers it as part of routine pregnancy care because newborn babies are especially vulnerable before they have completed their own early immunisations.

The recommendation for an individual can take account of pregnancy stage, previous doses, allergies, medical conditions and the local immunisation programme. Your obstetrician, midwife, GP, or vaccination provider can give advice that matches your situation.

At a prenatal visit, ask when Tdap is offered in your care plan and bring any available vaccination history. Tell the clinician about a previous serious reaction to a vaccine, a current illness with fever, or medicines that affect the immune system.

It is also sensible to review the household plan before the baby arrives. Family members can check their own records and should seek advice if they develop a persistent cough or have close contact with somebody diagnosed with whooping cough.

Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, facial or throat swelling, widespread hives, fainting, or a rapidly worsening reaction after an injection. During pregnancy, contact your maternity team promptly about fever, a significant cough, or reduced wellbeing; obtain urgent assessment for any severe symptoms they have instructed you to watch for.

Ask whether Tdap is due in this pregnancy, how it fits alongside other recommended vaccines, and what effects after vaccination are expected. Ask whom to contact outside clinic hours if you are unwell or have concerns after the injection.