Pregnant, and deciding whether to get the H1N1 vaccine

[logansmomma2007]

I am 18 weeks pregnant, and keep hearing about how I should be the first in line to get the swine flu vaccine.  I can't help but be a little wary of this message.  After being so cautious about what I put into my body, I think this decision should be approached in a meticulous manner. 

I have had no issues finding the risk factors associated with contracting the swine flu while pregnant.  I think it is only fair to know the risk factors associated with the vaccine so I can compare the two scenarios.  Each article I read cites that the vaccine is safe for both mother and unborn baby.  The most common reason given is that there has been no known issues from previous flu vaccines.  I have yet to find any scientific evidence to support such claims.  The prospective parents should be the ones making this type of assessment based on scientific facts, not someone's general observation. 

Various articles admit that the swine flu vaccine will be a tough sell for pregnant women as fewer than 15% normally receive the yearly flu vaccine.  For one, women are typically cautious of what medications they put into their bodies while pregnant.  Another reason is that there is controversy regarding the preservatives contained in vaccines.  One preservative in particular, thimerosal, has been under the radar for its possible link to autism (which has yet to be confirmed).  Most flu vaccines available to the public still contain this preservative.  Another thing that has people skeptical is the swine flu vaccine from 1976.  More people that year had devastating effects from the vaccine than ended up dying from the flu.    

It also doesn't help matters that my perception of the medical community has been turned upside down.  I am currently reading Born in the USA, and am learning that organizations like ACOG often make recommendations that are not based on scientific evidence.  I know that not all Dr.'s follow their advice, but you can understand why I question ACOG's logic behind recommending the vaccine to pregnant women.   

When I am not sure about what I should do, I have learned it is best to wait.  As it stands, I don't feel comfortable getting the vaccine until some quality scientific research is conducted.  

[jellyphish]

Sep. 25, 2009 at 3:14 PM

Another approach could be looking up the ingredients of the vaccine and their effects on pregnant women and feti.  (For example, we know for sure that mercury- which is in flu shots- is contraindicated especially for pregnant women.)

AND finding out less controversial ways to prevent getting the flu (that's right! Your choices are not limited to vaccines or death!)- good diet, specifically ample vitamin D, and good hygiene practices are so important and incredibly affective.

[logansmomma2007]

Sep. 25, 2009 at 3:20 PM

I ♥ you JP.

(Original Poster)

[Babylove76]

Sep. 25, 2009 at 3:59 PM

My kids and I are just getting over swine flu. It is like all the other flu's just a little worse. The kids did fine - it lasted about twice as long as normal flu does. I have other major health problems, so my recovery is a bit slower than theirs is. Ramp up on the vitamin D now!! It will help keep it at bay and help your recover if you get it. I have not ever vaccinated for the seasonal flu - and it's been nearly 6 yrs since we've had it.

[jellyphish]

Sep. 25, 2009 at 7:21 PM

I (fancy heart) you too!

[kcangel63]

Sep. 25, 2009 at 7:48 PM

I am 22 weeks tomorrow.  I am not getting the H1N1 vaccine (or any other vaccine).  As someone said earlier, the ingredients are something you should look at, although I don't think they've released that information yet.  Also, this is an untested vaccine.  There is no way to know what side effects it will be on you or your baby. 

I do know that a large portion of the medical community are refusing to get the H1N1 vaccine in the UK due to the problems they've had with death due to the vaccine shutting down the nervous system (guillain barre syndrome).

It is, of course, your decision in the end.  There are just way too many unknowns about this specific vaccine for me to even feel anywhere comfortable with it. 

I wish you luck on your pregnancy.  :)

 

[logansmomma2007]

Sep. 25, 2009 at 8:38 PM

Okay, just saw this.  I think have made my final decision. 

(Original Poster)

[Aasiyah]

Sep. 25, 2009 at 9:28 PM

As you know i am pregnant as well. I am just going into my 13th week. I too struggle with this decision. I will be consulting my ex boss who is a general practicitioner and  a very cary truthful individual. I will aslo consult my obgyn, my old physician assistant who helped me with my last pregnancy  before i make a decision.

Well i just saw you last post lorel.. i gu ess i should read that link .. i'm on my way.  th anks for posting this

[logansmomma2007]

Sep. 25, 2009 at 10:35 PM

Okay, just saw this.  I think have made my final decision. 

I was just about to point you to that very link.  I wouldn't do it if I were you.

[tericared]

Sep. 25, 2009 at 10:55 PM

I know you are a smart woman and will make the right choice for you and your baby.....[Dont do it,,,,typed with love and sarcasm]

[mtnmama111]

Sep. 26, 2009 at 4:09 AM

Oh my, thank you... I always get vaccinated against seasonal flu cuz I have asthma and it always leads to bronchitis for me (I actually have bronchitis right now from a cold and dust/mold exposure during our move) and the flu hasn't hit me since I've gotten vaccinated- EXCEPT for last June when all of us got a flu... and since we had been vaccinated against the *regular* flu and work with international tourists, we were told it was probably/most likely H1N1. It wasn't that bad- I've definitely been sicker!!

Thanks for the info- I was seriously considering getting vaccinated just in case- now we'll skip it; especially since we hopefully now are naturally immunized!! LOL...