I just found out that I'm 6 weeks pregnant. Do I need to get the flu vaccine or will it affect my pregnancy?
- Eliza*

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all pregnant women get a flu vaccine.

Pregnancy leads to changes in a woman's body. The immune system becomes a bit weaker. That makes it easier for pregnant women to catch whatever bug is going around. In addition, changes in how the heart and lungs work during pregnancy make it more likely that the flu will develop into a more serious problem, like pneumonia.

Although the flu vaccine comes in both shot and nasal spray form, you'll need to get the shot. The nasal spray is not recommended for pregnant women. Studies have shown that the shot is safe during pregnancy.

If you develop flu-like symptoms before or after you've been vaccinated, call your doctor right away. Pregnant women who catch the flu may need to take antiviral medicine to decrease the chances of developing complications.

Reviewed by: Elana P. Ben-Joseph, MD
Date reviewed: September 2012

* Names have been changed to protect user privacy.