The H1N1 vaccine is suggested for all pregnant women. H1N1 is a strain of flu that can be deadly for the unborn fetus and pregnant woman. Each year about the time when flu vaccine production increases in preparation for the flu season, new reports of dangerous side effects associated with the flu vaccine arise. Researchers have something to say about those negative myths. Not only has the H1N1 vaccine been proven safe and effective for pregnant women, new research has found no connection between birth complications and the vaccine. This is just another feather in the cap of doctors and researchers who push for 100% vaccination rates each year. 

JAMA Publishes Two New Studies
There are two new studies available in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The two studies report no birth complications or defects associated with the H1N1 vaccine. Furthermore, the vaccine is not known to restrict the growth of the fetus or cause premature labor.

The studies included more than 50,000 infants. All infants were born between 2009 and 2010. Nearly 7,000 infants were born to mothers who received the H1N1 vaccination. When researchers calculated the percentage of risk for major birth defect, preterm birth or small for gestational age size – there was NO significant statistical difference. 

Obstetricians now have even more fuel for the fire when it comes to convincing pregnant women to have an H1N1 vaccine. 

Preventing the Flu at Home
Even with the H1N1 vaccine pregnant women need to limit contact with people who may have the flu or who may have been exposed to the flu. Regular hand-washing is crucial. If children in the home come down with flu-like symptoms, try to stay away until the symptoms subside.

If you start having symptoms of the flu, report the symptoms to your obstetrician immediately. Drink plenty of water and rest until the symptoms subside.  

Source: JAMA. July 12, 2012.