Vaccinations Every Woman Should Know About
By Dr. Jaya Subrahmanyam · 13 Jul 2026
Vaccination is not just something we think about for children. As a woman, certain vaccines matter at very specific points in your life — before you plan a pregnancy, during pregnancy, and at different ages as you go about your everyday life. Many of these are missed simply because nobody explained why they matter or when to take them.
Dr. Jaya Subrahmanyam of Vinayaka Hospital, Arekere, Bengaluru, walks through the vaccinations every woman should be aware of, and how they protect you at every stage of life.
1. HPV Vaccine
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine protects against the strains of HPV responsible for the vast majority of cervical cancer cases, along with other HPV-related cancers.
- Helps prevent cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers among Indian women
- Recommended for adolescents and young women, ideally between the ages of 9 and 26
- Most effective when given before any exposure to HPV, which is why early vaccination matters
Even women who have already been sexually active can benefit from the vaccine, so it is worth discussing with your Gynaecologist regardless of your age or history.
2. Tetanus (Td/Tdap)
The tetanus vaccine, given as Td or Tdap, is one of the most important vaccinations during pregnancy.
- Important during pregnancy, typically given in the second or third trimester
- Protects both mother and baby from tetanus infection around the time of delivery
- Reduces the risk of newborn (neonatal) tetanus significantly
This is a standard part of antenatal care and is given as a routine part of your pregnancy check-ups at Vinayaka Hospital.
3. Influenza Vaccine
The flu vaccine is often overlooked by adults, but it is particularly important for women, including those who are pregnant.
- Recommended every year, as flu strains change each season
- Safe during pregnancy, at any trimester
- Helps prevent severe flu complications, which can be more serious during pregnancy
4. Rubella (MMR)
Rubella infection during early pregnancy can cause serious birth defects, which is why immunity to rubella matters before you conceive.
- Best taken before pregnancy, ideally with a gap of at least one month before conceiving
- Prevents congenital rubella syndrome, a serious condition affecting the baby
- Consult your Gynaecologist before planning pregnancy to check your rubella immunity status
5. Hepatitis B Vaccine
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can become chronic if left unaddressed.
- Protects the liver from long-term damage caused by chronic infection
- Recommended for women at risk, including healthcare workers and those with certain lifestyle or family risk factors
- Safe and highly effective, with long-lasting protection
6. COVID-19 Vaccine
COVID-19 vaccination guidance continues to evolve, and it remains a relevant consideration for women's health.
- Recommended according to current medical guidelines applicable to your age and health status
- Helps reduce the risk of severe illness
- Ask your doctor about booster doses based on your individual risk factors
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vaccines should I take before planning a pregnancy?
Rubella (MMR) immunity should be confirmed before conception, and any other pending vaccinations should ideally be completed before you start trying to conceive. Discuss your vaccination history with your Gynaecologist during preconception counselling.
Are vaccines safe during pregnancy?
Certain vaccines, such as Tdap and the influenza vaccine, are specifically recommended during pregnancy because they protect both mother and baby. Others, like MMR, are avoided during pregnancy and should be taken beforehand. Always follow your Gynaecologist's guidance on timing.
I am not sure which vaccines I have already taken. What should I do?
Bring any vaccination records you have to your next appointment. If records are unavailable, your doctor can guide you on which vaccines or tests are appropriate based on your age, history, and current health.
Book Your Consultation
Not sure which vaccines you need? Consult the Gynaecology Department at Vinayaka Hospital to know which vaccines are right for you, at every stage of life.
Dr. Jaya Subrahmanyam
Senior Gynaecologist & Obstetrician
25+ Years of Experience
Vinayaka Hospital
Sir M. Visvesvaraya Road, Arekere
Bengaluru, Karnataka 560076
Comments
Loading…
Leave a comment
Book a consultation with Dr. Jaya Subrahmanyam
Call +91 99809 55836 or book online below.