Chickenpox Vaccine During Pregnancy: Risks, Benefits, and Recommendations

Risks

The chickenpox (varicella) vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine and is not recommended during pregnancy. The weakened virus could potentially infect the fetus, causing serious birth defects such as:

• Limb deformities
• Eye problems
• Brain damage

Potential Benefits (If Vaccinated Inadvertently)

• Protecting the baby from chickenpox: Maternal chickenpox during pregnancy can lead to fetal varicella syndrome (pneumonia, encephalitis, death). Vaccination may reduce this risk.
• Preventing shingles: The vaccine lowers shingles risk, which is higher in pregnant women.

Guidance

If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, discuss the vaccine with your doctor. The CDC advises avoiding pregnancy for at least one month after vaccination. Women who are not immune should be vaccinated postpartum.