Flu shot during pregnancy - When to call the doctor

Summary: Getting the flu shot during pregnancy is safe, recommended, and helps protect both mum and baby, especially during peak flu season. The vaccine is inactivated, so it can’t give you the flu, but it does pass protective antibodies to your baby. While minor side effects like a sore arm or fatigue are normal, serious reactions are rare. Always chat with your GP, midwife, or obstetrician for personalised advice.

Ever catch yourself thinking, “Wait, do I need a flu shot while pregnant?” If so, you’re not alone.  Read on for some down-to-earth thoughts on this topic—quirks, disclaimers, random leftover notes, and all.

So, why even bother with a flu shot when I’m pregnant?

Pregnancy already means your body is busy in ways you never expected, right? Growing a human is kind of a big deal. Your immune system might not be as robust as before, and something as “basic” as the flu can actually turn serious fast. What's important to understand is that the flu can sometimes lead to pneumonia and other complications in expectant mothers.

A typical flu shot won’t give you the flu (no live virus in there), but it can give you a solid line of defense—and that includes sharing antibodies with your baby. Think of it as offering them a tiny protective blanket while they’re still cozied up in your belly. More on that later.

Can I get a jab anytime while pregnant?

There’s no universal rule that bans you from getting the shot in any specific trimester. Guidelines say it’s generally safe at any point during pregnancy. Some docs prefer waiting until after the first trimester, mostly to calm nerves (since the first trimester is when everything can feel super fragile). But if it’s peak flu season—and you’re frequently around crowds (think: public transit, busy workplaces)—it might be better to get protected sooner rather than later.

What happens if you do get the flu shot during pregnancy?

Most folks get a mildly sore arm. Some get a day or two of feeling a bit off—maybe a low-grade fever or light fatigue. Occasionally, a small headache sneaks in. That’s just your immune system in action, not the flu.

Crucially, we’re talking about the inactivated vaccine here, which can’t actually give you influenza. It’s sort of like handing your immune system a “wanted” poster for the flu virus so it can gear up defenses in advance. Meanwhile, your body may pass some of these protective antibodies onto the baby, both through the placenta and later through breast milk if you plan to breastfeed. It’s a nice little bonus layer of armour for your baby once they’re born.

Also read: Is It OK to Get a Flu Shot If You Have the Flu?

Will flu vaccines affect the baby?

Yes, but (thankfully) in a good way. Babies can’t get their own flu shot until they’re a bit older (usually around six months). So, if they arrive in the middle of a raging flu season, they’re vulnerable. The idea is that your body’s antibodies become their temporary shield.

There’s no evidence linking the inactivated flu shot to weird foetal issues or developmental problems. On the flip side, catching influenza while pregnant could raise the risk of preterm labour, among other worries. So, doctors often weigh the risk of the disease itself (which can be nasty) against the relatively mild, brief side effects of vaccination.

Remember, the inactivated flu shot can’t infect you with actual influenza. Don’t let that misconception hold you back.

When should I actually get this done?

Flu season typically hits in the fall and can rampage through winter. Many healthcare providers suggest going for the shot in April onwards (at least in the Southern Hemisphere) to be protected in time during the peak flu season around June to September. But if June rolls around and you haven’t had it yet, it’s still not too late—some protection is better than zero. Just talk it out with your GP, obstetrician, or midwife.

That said, if you have an egg allergy or any other major medical conditions, do mention it. There are egg-free versions of the shot floating around, and your doctor can help you pick the right type.  

What to do before the vaccine?

• Chat with your obstetrician (or midwife, or GP).
• If you’re prone to fainting from needles, let the nurse or pharmacist know. It’s okay to lie down while they do it.
• Bring water or a snack if you’re the type who feels woozy.

What to expect after the vaccine?

Usually, not much drama. Your arm might get tender—sometimes massaging it gently can help. If you do feel sluggish or get a low fever, it often passes within a day or two. Staying hydrated and maybe taking a nap if you’re wiped out can make a difference.

Keep an eye out for any serious reactions, though those are rare. That might mean trouble breathing, swelling in your face, or an especially high fever that won’t budge. If that happens, or if you’re just worried, a quick call to your healthcare provider is the way to go.

When to call the doctor?

You know your body best. If something feels off, don’t wait. But specifically:

• Fever over 38.5°C that doesn’t come down with paracetamol.
• Severe or worsening pain around the injection site.
• Signs of an allergic reaction (major swelling, hives, breathing difficulties).
• Contractions or cramps that make you think, “Uh, this is more than just a random twinge.”

Pregnancy can amplify normal sensations or trigger new concerns. Nobody will blame you for being extra cautious.

How can Hola Health help with the flu shot during pregnancy?

Hola Health makes it easy and stress-free for expecting mums to prioritise their health. Through our 24/7 telehealth service, you can:

• Speak to an Australian GP anytime: Get personalised advice on flu vaccination during pregnancy, including timing, safety, and benefits for both you and your baby.
• Get a prescription online 24/7: While flu vaccines don’t always need a prescription, your Hola doctor can guide you on the best approach based on your health and where you plan to get vaccinated.
• Receive medical certificates online: If you’re feeling unwell or need time off post-vaccine, Hola can issue a medical certificate online for work or school instantly.
• Access care from home: No need to visit a clinic. Our telehealth platform allows you to consult with AHPRA-registered practitioners from anywhere in Australia, ideal for pregnant women wanting to avoid crowded waiting rooms.

Pre-shot + post-shot routines

Before you head in:

1. No real “fasting” needed (you’re not getting blood work done).
2. If you’re anxious, bring a support buddy.

After you’re done:

• Move your arm gently.
• Drink a glass of water.
• If you’re the journaling type, note how you feel the next day, just so you have a record for future reference.

A warm compress can help with any discomfort. Also read: What to Avoid After Flu Shot: Prepping and Aftercare Steps

But doesn’t it hurt the baby?

In most cases, no. And skipping the flu shot leaves you open to contracting the real flu—which can get complicated while pregnant. If you’ve got doubt swirling in your head, compile a list of questions and get your GP/Obstetrician to answer them in plain language. Another option is to request reputable printouts or official guidelines from professional organisations.

Final thoughts

Pregnancy is overwhelming enough without worrying about whether a vaccine is safe. But the medical consensus is that the flu shot is strongly recommended. The potential downside is minimal, especially compared to a real influenza infection.

Still, always trust your gut—and your qualified medical team. If something is nagging at you, ask your provider to walk you through the data. Sometimes, all it takes is hearing an experienced voice say, “Yep, we do this all the time, and here’s why,” to ease the stress.

In short:

• You can usually get the flu shot anytime in pregnancy, but check with your doctor for the best timing.
• The shot is inactivated, so you can’t catch the flu from it.
• It helps protect both you and the baby, even after birth.
• If you have weird symptoms afterward—high fever, major swelling, etc.—call your healthcare provider.

Everyone’s journey is different, but for most pregnant women, the flu vaccine offers peace of mind in a not-so-peaceful season.