Vaccines during pregnancy
When you are pregnant your immune system changes. You may be more at risk of some infections and illnesses that can harm you and your baby.
It's important that you talk to your doctor about vaccines and pregnancy.
Vaccines before pregnancy
If you are planning to have a baby, try to have your routine vaccinations up to date before you become pregnant.
Book an appointment to speak with your doctor. They may order a blood test to check your immunity to some diseases (including rubella, chickenpox and hepatitis B) to see if you are protected.
Based on the results, they may recommend some vaccines.
Free vaccines during pregnancy
If you are pregnant, you can get these vaccines for free under the National Immunisation Program:
Speak to your doctor or antenatal care provider for more information. Immunisation providers may charge a consultation fee.
Vaccines after pregnancy
If you were unable to be vaccinated before or during pregnancy, you should get them as soon as your baby is born.
If you are breastfeeding you should still be able to get most vaccines, however there are some you shouldn't have. Talk to your doctor.
Other children
You should continue routine vaccinations for your other children while you are pregnant as this will help reduce the risk of you, or your new baby catching these diseases.
Additional resources
You can read more information about immunisation for women who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy on the Immunisation for pregnancy page on the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care website.