RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is the leading cause of hospitalization in infants — but a new vaccine can prevent it before your baby is even born. The CDC, ACOG, and SMFM all recommend a single dose of the RSV vaccine during pregnancy to protect newborns from severe RSV disease during their most vulnerable first months of life. If you’re between 32 and 36 weeks pregnant during RSV season, this vaccine offers your baby powerful protection. Here’s everything you need to know about who should get it, when, and why it matters.
What Is RSV and Why Does Your Baby Need Protection?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms in adults and older children. But in infants — especially those under 6 months old — RSV can cause severe lower respiratory tract infections, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia requiring hospitalization.
According to the CDC, RSV hospitalizes more U.S. infants annually than any other infectious cause. In a single season, RSV can lead to prolonged hospital stays, oxygen support, and in rare cases, death. Most RSV infections peak between December and January, making maternal vaccination during pregnancy a critical protective strategy before your baby enters the world.
Who Should Get the RSV Vaccine During Pregnancy?
The CDC, ACOG, and SMFM recommend maternal RSV vaccination for all pregnant women who meet the timing criteria. This includes women with uncomplicated pregnancies as well as those with certain medical conditions.
When to Get the RSV Vaccine: Timing Is Key
Timing matters for the RSV vaccine. To give your baby maximum protection, the vaccine should be given during a specific window:
- Optimal timing: Weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy (second trimester for most women)
- RSV season window: September 1 through January 31 (in most of the continental United States; timing differs in Hawaii, Alaska, Florida, and US territories)
- Why this window? When you receive the vaccine at 32–36 weeks, your body produces protective antibodies that cross the placenta to your baby. Recent 2024 research suggests vaccination closer to week 32 (rather than week 36) may provide the most efficient antibody transfer. Your baby is born with these maternal antibodies and is protected for approximately 6 months — covering the entire RSV season.
- Where to get it: Your OB/GYN office, local pharmacy, or healthcare provider. Most insurance plans cover it; Medicaid covers it in all states.
Which RSV Vaccine Is Approved for Pregnancy?
Only ONE RSV vaccine is approved and recommended for use during pregnancy: Pfizer’s Abrysvo. This is critical to know — other RSV vaccines are NOT approved for pregnancy.
- Approved for pregnancy: Pfizer Abrysvo
- NOT approved for pregnancy: GSK Arexvy and Moderna mResvia (these are for older adults, not pregnant women)
Ask your healthcare provider to confirm you’re receiving Abrysvo. If you encounter the other vaccines by mistake, let your provider know immediately.
How Effective Is the Vaccine? And Is It Safe?
- Effectiveness: In clinical trials, maternal RSV vaccination reduced the risk of infant hospitalization for RSV by 68% and risk of healthcare visits for RSV by 57% within 3 months after birth.
- Safety profile: The vaccine is safe during pregnancy. Common side effects are mild: arm pain/soreness, headache, muscle pain, and nausea — similar to other vaccines. Serious complications are extremely rare.
- No increased preterm birth risk: Studies confirm the vaccine does not increase the risk of preterm birth or other poor pregnancy outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the RSV vaccine at the same time as other vaccines?
Yes, absolutely. The RSV vaccine can be given at the same visit as flu, COVID-19, and Tdap vaccines. No waiting period is required between them.
What if I'm past 36 weeks? Can I still get it?
The CDC recommends the vaccine between weeks 32–36 during RSV season (Sept–Jan). If you’re past 36 weeks, talk to your OB about nirsevimab, a long-acting antibody your baby can receive after birth for RSV protection.
What if I had the RSV vaccine in a previous pregnancy?
You do not need another RSV vaccine during future pregnancies. Instead, your next baby should receive nirsevimab after birth for protection.
Will the vaccine help me, the pregnant woman?
The vaccine is designed to protect your baby, not you directly. However, it may offer some protection to you as well. The primary benefit is your newborn’s protection during their first 6 months of life.
What is nirsevimab? Is it different from the vaccine?
Nirsevimab is NOT a vaccine — it’s a long-acting monoclonal antibody that can be given to babies after birth if you didn’t receive the maternal vaccine during pregnancy. Talk to your OB and pediatrician about which option (maternal vaccine or infant nirsevimab) is best for your family.
Why Motherhood Fertility & IVF Recommends Maternal RSV Vaccination
At Motherhood Fertility & IVF, we believe protecting your baby starts before birth. The RSV vaccine is a simple, safe, evidence-based step you can take during pregnancy to prevent severe illness in your newborn. We discuss all vaccination options — including the timing, safety, and alternatives — so you can make informed decisions about your prenatal care.
