Question

When should pregnant women receive the Tdap vaccine?

a) At 28 weeks of gestation during each pregnancy
b) At 12 weeks of gestation during each pregnancy
c) At 20 weeks of gestation during the first pregnancy only
d) After delivery during each pregnancy

Answer 1

The Tdap vaccine should be administered to pregnant women at 28 weeks of gestation during each pregnancy to protect the newborn against pertussis, tetanus, and diphtheria.

Step-by-step explanation:

Optimal Timing for Tdap Vaccine in Pregnancy

Pregnant women should receive the Tdap vaccine at 28 weeks of gestation during each pregnancy to provide passive immunity to the infant against whooping cough (pertussis), as well as protection against tetanus and diphtheria. The recommendation is to administer this vaccine in the third trimester, specifically between 27 and 36 weeks gestation, to maximize the transfer of maternal antibodies to the fetus.

Pertussis is particularly dangerous for newborns, and this strategy helps protect the baby until they are able to receive their own vaccinations starting at 2 months of age. It's important to receive the Tdap vaccination during each pregnancy, as the antibody levels reduce over time and the benefit needs to be renewed with each pregnancy for the safety of the newborn