With the flu and COVID in the picture, your flu shot never mattered more

You’re probably tired of hearing the word “unprecedented,” but that’s exactly the word our Austin fertility doctors would use to describe this year’s flu season. Both the flu and COVID are concerning medical experts this year, so it’s important to get your flu shot and take other steps to protect yourself. This is especially true if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive. The team at Texas Fertility Center (TFC) is sharing some tips and information to keep you safe.

The flu and COVID can cause serious problems for expectant mothers and their babies

Doctors know that the flu poses a greater threat to pregnant women and their babies. Expectant moms are more likely to have severe flu complications and need to spend time in the hospital. As for unborn babies, they are more likely to have neural tube defects if their mother has a fever (as is common with the flu) during pregnancy.

Not surprisingly, COVID also poses a threat to women who are carrying a baby. A Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) study from the CDC found that pregnant women who get COVID are more likely to end up in the hospital and ICU.

Getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to stay healthy

Clearly, both the flu and COVID can be very dangerous for women who are expecting. Thankfully, you can take steps to protect yourself and your baby. Your first step should be to get the flu shot. While we’re still awaiting a COVID vaccine, you can find the flu shot in local clinics and pharmacies.

Concerned about getting the shot during pregnancy? You can rest easy. Extensive studies and the millions of pregnant women who have safely received the shot show that it’s safe to get this vaccination during pregnancy.

As for when you should get the shot, you should aim for September or October. This sweet spot makes sure you have protection both at the beginning and the end of flu season. Our Austin fertility doctors also recommend continuing to protect yourself against COVID. That means hand-washing, social-distancing and mask-wearing should still be part of your daily life.

If you have more questions about the flu and COVID, contact us for an appointment. You can count on the TFC team to help you and your future family stay safe and healthy.