Medication
Is the Tdap Vaccine Safe During Pregnancy?
Published 2026-07-10 | By SafeMama Editorial Team | Editorial policy
Short answer
Tdap is recommended during each pregnancy by major obstetric and public-health guidance because it helps protect newborns from pertussis before they can be vaccinated.
Recommended in each pregnancy
What is the safest way to think about this?
CDC says Tdap during pregnancy helps safely protect mothers and babies, and the CDC vaccine information statement says pregnant women should get Tdap during every pregnancy, preferably early in the third trimester.
What is generally okay?
- Ask your prenatal clinician when Tdap should be given in your pregnancy.
- Tell them about previous vaccine reactions or current illness.
- Encourage close family and caregivers to be up to date on pertussis vaccination.
What should you avoid or double-check?
- Avoid skipping the conversation because you had Tdap in a past pregnancy.
- Avoid assuming newborns are protected before their own vaccine series begins.
- Avoid relying on internet advice when you have a vaccine allergy history or immune-system concern.
How SafeMama helps
SafeMama can help separate Tdap, Td, DTaP, flu, COVID, and RSV vaccine questions so users know what to ask at a prenatal visit.
Open the SafeMama app, scan the barcode or search the ingredient, then use the result as a starting point for a conversation with your healthcare provider.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Tdap in every pregnancy?
CDC and ACOG guidance supports Tdap during each pregnancy because antibodies can help protect each newborn.
When is Tdap usually given?
CDC states it is preferably given in the early part of the third trimester; many schedules use 27 through 36 weeks. Confirm your local plan.
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