The Tetanus Toxoid (TT) vaccine is given during your pregnancy to prevent tetanus to you as well as your baby. AntTetanus is a life-threatening bacterial disease that is caused by the toxin of a bacterium called Clostridium tetani. Tetanus bacteria enter the body through an open wound. It could well be a tiny prick or scratch on the skin, although Tetanus infection is more common when there is a deep puncture wound such as a bite, cut, burn or an ulcer. Tetanus affects a person’s nervous system and can be fatal if left untreated. It is preventable through immunisation.
ibodies formed in your body, after the vaccination, are passed on to your baby and protect her for a few months after birth. It also helps prevent premature delivery.
In the first pregnancy, your doctor will recommend at least two doses of the TT vaccine. The first vaccination is given in the first trimester soon after your pregnancy tests are confirmed and after your first antenatal appointment. The second dose of the TT vaccine is given at least four to eight weeks after the first. Some experts recommend that the second dose of the vaccine should be given four weeks prior to the expected date of delivery. The WHO also recommends that a third vaccine be given six months after the second one to provide protection for at least five years.
If this is your second pregnancy and it has been less than two years since your last pregnancy, when you had received both TT vaccines, then only a booster dose is recommended. In many countries such as the US, the Td or tetanus-diphtheria vaccine is recommended for pregnant women. This vaccine is now available in India. You may want to check with your doctor if she would like you to opt for it.
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