Which vaccinations are important for women’s health? Here are the top V. + Covid XIX

Every year, women should be assed of infection risk based on age, lifestyle and history.

 i.  HPV                                                                                                                     

The majority of cervical cancers are associated with the HPV virus.  The vaccine is considered safe and effective with little or no side effects.  The vaccine is typically started at age 11 to age 26.  The FDA recently increased the age to 45 in those who remain at risk.  Experts believe that there will be less cervical, anal and certain throat cancers on account of this vaccine.

ii.   Influenza                                                                                   

Every year, usually in the fall, you should receive your flu shot.  If you are feeling feverish you should hold off until you are feeling better. Pregnant women should be vaccinated for flu as they are at higher risk for contracting and becoming ill from the flu.  For those over the age of 65, a higher dose flu vaccine should be administered each season.  Those with certain allergies or neurologic issues should consult their doctor. before receiving the flu vaccine

iii.   Varicella (Chickenpox)/Shingles                                                                              

The Varicella vaccine should be offered to women who are not immune.  Pregnant women cannot receive the varicella vaccine, if not immune, they must wait until after delivery and those planning pregnancy, should consult their doctor as they prepare for conception. Shingles is a painful reactivation of chickenpox. The shingles vaccine is administered every ten years starting at age 50.

iv. Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)                                                        

Women of childbearing age should receive screening for immunity to rubella and measles.  Women who are not immune and are not pregnant should be vaccinated. Women who are planning pregnancy need to wait 3 months before conceiving.

v.   Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap)                                                                                                                                 Pregnant women receive the Tdap vaccine for passive immunity to the fetus. Those who are not not pregnant should receive this vaccine every 10 years.

xix. COVID

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend that all eligible people, including pregnant and breast-feeding women, receive the Covid XIX vaccine. Boosters will soon be available as well. Recommendations will evolve as more information and data is collected. 

Verbena does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a medical provider. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.