Vaccines
When your body is invaded by a germ, it prompts your immune system — your body's natural defense against disease — to produce antibodies to fight the infection.

A vaccine is usually made up of an altered form of the germ that you will be protected against. Vaccines are safe and effective.

To protect against some diseases, you need only one dose of the vaccine to be immune for life. For other diseases, there are some vaccines that you have to renew periodically.

Which Do You Need?
Most of the vaccines you have received were probably given to you as a child. If you have not had the common childhood vaccinations, or if you aren't sure, talk with your doctor — it may be important for you to get them now. All children now should receive the following vaccines:

• Diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP)
• Polio
• Measles, mumps, and rubella
• Hepatitis B
• Haemophilus influenzae type B
• Varicella

There are six main vaccines adult women may need to receive.

Tetanus-Diphtheria
Tetanus and diphtheria are two serious bacterial diseases. Tetanus — or lockjaw — is an infection that usually enters the body through a deep puncture wound or cut like those made by nails or knives.

Diphtheria can cause the growth of a membrane, usually in the throat, that can block air passages from the lungs. This leads to breathing problems.

Measles, Mumps and Rubella
Measles, mumps and rubella are three serious diseases caused by viruses. Measles cause a rash, high fever and cough. Mumps can cause a painful swelling of the glands near the ears. Rubella (German measles) causes cold symptoms, sore throat, fever and a rash. In pregnant women, rubella can cause birth defects or death of the fetus.

Hepatitis B Virus
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) attacks and damages the liver. It is spread by contact with bodily fluids and can cause the disease hepatitis.

Varicella
Varicella — chickenpox — is a very contagious disease. People who have never had varicella can get infected just by being in the room with someone who has the disease.

Although varicella is a mild disease for children, adults usually get much sicker.

Influenza
Influenza — the flu — is a very contagious infection of the nose, throat and lungs.

A new flu vaccine is made each year because the influenza virus changes each winter season.

Pneumococcal Pneumonia
Pneumococcal pneumonia is caused by bacteria that infect the lungs.

Concerns During Pregnancy
If you are planning to become pregnant, you may wish to schedule a preconceptional visit with your doctor. As part of your visit, your doctor will make sure you've had all routine vaccinations to protect you and your fetus from possible problems.

Finally …
Vaccines are an important part of your preventive health care. Talk with your doctor about which ones you need.

This excerpt from ACOG's Patient Education Pamphlet is provided for your information. It is not medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for visiting your doctor. If you need medical care, have any questions, or wish to receive the full text of this Patient Education Pamphlet, please contact your obstetrician-gynecologist.