Bit of an odd flu-vacc one...

[MrsGentlyBenevolent]

My local medical center has sent me a letter asking me to come in for the flu jab, as they do with pregnant ladies this time of year, I know. I have no issues with vaccinations at all, I've had the WC already and would be quite happy to have this one. However, the appointment is set for a couple of days after my due date (early Oct). Of course, there's a chance baby won't be here by then (at the moment he seems to be thinking about thinking about it, from the twinges I'm getting), but I am presuming that the flu vacc for pregnant women is only for those who will be pregnant during winter - or does it pass on benefits to the baby for his first winter months? I get the feeling I don't 'need' it, and I'm taking up space, but obviously if it can protect baby as well I'm more than happy to go for it. Any ideas?

I'd call them and try and get an earlier appointment if possible, given your "early in the flu season" due date. Maybe speak to the practice nurse rather than the receptionist - they might be able to squeeze you in for a normal appointment rather than waiting for a flu clinic.

It's primarily for your benefit but of course baby will benefit from your reduced risk of flu yourself. There is some placental crossover I understand but it's minimal and can take time to form the antibodies so if you deliver very shortly after having it this won't have had time to happen.

You won't be eligible after you're delivered (unless you are eligible by virtue of other medical criteria such as asthma for example) so try and get it done before delivery if you're able to. It then means you are less likely to catch flu and share it with your household.

Hope all goes well and you have your baby soon

Cheers, Sidge, I'll give them a call on Monday. I've never been offered it as an adult, even the year I managed to get one hell of a lung infection that lead to pneumonia, so I figured that it was only for those who really needed it. I know they order enough in, just really hate the feeling of possibly taking someone else's spot (blame it on the hormones!). To be honest, it didn't cross my mind I'd be offered it due to getting pregnant so early in the year, and having an early Autumn due date.

Don't worry about taking someone else's, because you're not.
Have you got a MW appointment? At the surgery where I work, it would be done as part of that appointment, You could ask if that is possible, or just ask for an earlier appointment with the PN as previously suggested.

It's not a case of taking someone else's spot or vaccine, honestly!

Your need is much more time-pressured than many of our other patients who can wait an extra week or two. I don't think you can

I do have a MW appointment, but it's the day before my due date so still leaves little space. She had said at my booking appointment that she didn't think I'd need it - obviously October seemed a lifetime away at that point anyway. If it was a month before I was due, I'd go without thinking. Just seems a bit 'off' to go when I'm techincally not even meant to be pregnant anymore. Overthinking the whole thing, have too much time on my hands at the moment!

If you can't get it done at the surgery, Boots and other pharmacies will do it for free if you have a maternity prescription card. Getting mine done there as it's nearer than the surgery and I can get an earlier appt

Women are considered at a higher risk of influenza complications for up to two weeks following birth. www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/3096.aspx?CategoryID=5

So it would still be within the NHS guidelines for you to have the jab for at least two weeks after your baby is born. You are definitely not taking up space :)

If it were me though, I wouldn't feel guilty about having it if offered at any point, as the last thing you need whilst caring for a tiny baby in their first few weeks/months of life is a dose of the flu.

Hi OP, I just had the flu vaccine this morning and I'm due on Friday - one midwife said she didn't think much point but the last one I saw said I may as well get it as at the very least you want to avoid flu if at all possible when caring for a young baby - that made sense to me! I already had last seasons vaccine back in the early spring when I was in 1st tri - and like you I thought baby may be here or about to be here so what's the point - interesting what PP has said about women being susceptible after birth, guess that's another factor in thinking about getting it.