Expecting? Here’s why doctors recommend the RSV vaccine
Don’t worry, this isn’t another alarmist essay set to exploit your antenatal anxiety (there are enough of those on the internet!). But we do believe this is a conversation every expecting parent should tune in to.
While you take every precaution on the planet to protect your little one during pregnancy, there’s one step that health professionals are recommending: the maternal RSV vaccine.
What is RSV?
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) has made a lot of noise in the past few years. Since 2021, cases have risen steadily.
The virus targets the lungs and airways. For older children and adults, it often feels like a regular cold with a runny nose, cough, and mild fever.
But for babies, especially those under 12 months, RSV can be much more serious. It can lead to bronchiolitis (an inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) or pneumonia, both of which can cause breathing problems and can even require a hospital stay.
Babies who were born prematurely or those who have other health conditions are more likely to end up in the hospital. However, even healthy babies can have serious complications from RSV.
That might sound scary, but this is something you can help prevent by getting the RSV vaccine at 28-36 weeks of your pregnancy.
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Why do I need the vaccine?
We know pregnancy can feel like a long list of decisions. This, however, is a choice that really counts.
The RSV vaccine helps your body produce antibodies which then pass through the placenta to your baby. These antibodies protect your baby against RSV from birth for up to 6 months until their immune system becomes stronger and they make their own antibodies.
When should you get it? It’s recommended between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, because the best protection happens when your baby’s immune system has time to absorb antibodies in those final weeks before birth.
So, this vaccine gives your baby a bit of a safety net during those early months when they’re most vulnerable.
Better yet, it’s free during pregnancy!
Now, the part we’ve been eagerly waiting to get to. The maternal RSV vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program for pregnant women.
In a time when it feels like every baby-related expense adds up, that’s nothing to turn your nose up at.
To save time, we recommend getting the vaccine during one of your regular prenatal appointments. You can also get it with other recommended maternal vaccines, like influenza and whooping cough!
What to ask your doctor if you’re unsure
It’s completely okay to have questions. Such is the life of a soon-to-be parent!
Here are some things you can ask your doctor or midwife to help clear things up:
Why do you recommend the RSV vaccine for me specifically?
Not everything you hear about pregnancy applies to you. While the RSV vaccine is recommended for all pregnant mothers, it might help to hear why your doctor thinks it’s a good idea for you and your little one.
What are the side effects? Should I be worried about them?
Fear not, your doctor won’t unfurl a lengthy scroll and cite twenty minutes worth of possible risks.
It’s always good to ask about possible side effects so you know what to expect. The side effects for this vaccine are typically mild and short-lived, but it’s always best to ask and to know what to look for.
How does this vaccine compare to other vaccines I’m getting during pregnancy?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the vaccinations you’re getting, ask your doctor how this vaccine fits in with the others you can get, like influenza and whooping cough. It’ll help put things into perspective.
What happens if I don’t get the vaccine?
It’s much better to ask about the risks of not getting vaccinated than to give a blanket ‘no’. The maternal RSV vaccine significantly reduces the risk of severe RSV disease in infants less than 6 months of age. Understanding the potential consequences of not vaccinating can help you make an informed decision.
Are there any other ways to protect my baby from RSV?
In addition to getting the maternal vaccines during pregnancy, avoiding exposure to sick people and practicing good hygiene once your baby arrives can help to prevent illness.
Final thoughts
There’s no denying that pregnancy comes with a lot of decisions – big and small. The maternal RSV vaccine might not be the first thing on your mind, but it’s another step you can take to protect your baby’s health.
A vaccination now helps protect your baby’s health in those first few months when they need it most.
And how awesome is it that we live in a time and place that allows us to do that?
So, if your health professional suggests the vaccine, don’t be afraid to ask questions, get more info, and make the choice that feels right for you.
Sources
Australian Department of Health and Aged Care, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine in pregnancy, April 2025
Australian Department of Health and Aged Care, Immunisation for pregnancy, April 2025
National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance Australia, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): Frequently asked questions (FAQs), March 2025
Pregnancy, Birth, and Baby, Having a healthy pregnancy, September 2024
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