Before trying, make sure MMR and varicella are up to date at least 30 days before you start trying (they contain live virus), complete the hepatitis B schedule, and keep influenza, Tdap, HPV and COVID-19 up to date. Resolve it beforehand: afterward it gets harder.
| Vaccine | Why | When |
|---|---|---|
| MMR | Rubella in pregnancy causes malformations | 30 days before |
| Varicella | Chickenpox in pregnancy has complications | 30 days before |
| Hepatitis B | Prevents infection and transmission | Complete schedule before |
| Tdap | Protection for the baby too | Can be during pregnancy |
| Influenza | The flu in pregnancy has more complications | Annual |
| HPV | If you haven't had it, ideally before | Before pregnancy |
| COVID-19 | Reduces risks in pregnancy | Keep up to date |
From Chapter 11 of Map to the Positive.
The book calls vaccines and dental care two frequently forgotten areas that can compromise the entire pregnancy. Most of this list is simple to settle. Hepatitis B needs its complete schedule finished before pregnancy. Tdap can even be given during pregnancy, the flu vaccine is annual, and COVID-19 just needs to be kept up to date. Two items need real planning, because of the waiting time they require.
MMR and varicella contain live attenuated virus. It's recommended to wait at least 30 days between the vaccine and the start of trying. Don't vaccinate after confirming pregnancy without specific medical guidance.
In practice, this means the vaccine comes before the first attempt, not alongside it. If a live-virus vaccine is pending, the 30 days start counting on the day of the shot, so schedule it before you set a date to begin. The book's 90-day plan also lists “update any pending vaccines (MMR if needed)” among its actions.
Start by knowing where you stand. One of the 11 preconception tests in the book, the complete serologies, checks your immunity to rubella, toxoplasmosis and cytomegalovirus. If there is susceptibility to rubella, vaccination is necessary before pregnancy.
The book's final checklist for Station I includes “vaccines up to date (especially MMR)” as one of the items to have in place before moving on.
Vaccines are the first half of Chapter 11 of Map to the Positive, “Vaccines and dental care”, in Station I (Foundation). The same station gives you the 11 preconception tests with what each one assesses, smart supplementation, the real detox, and the preconception visit with a printable question script and final checklist, so nothing important is left for after the positive. Station II then teaches you to read your own cycle.
Take 30 days. If it does not give you more clarity than everything you have read for free so far, ask for a refund and you get every cent back. We cannot promise you a pregnancy. We can promise you will not be guessing.