How to Conceive After a TDAP Shot

Take special precautions after a TDAP shot.

Receiving the TDAP vaccination is important to prevent passing any deadly diseases to your newborn baby, as well as to protect yourself. The TDAP vaccine protects you against three diseases: tetanus, which affects the central nervous system; diphtheria, which affects the respiratory system; and pertussis, or whooping cough. Receiving the vaccine prior to pregnancy is safe for most women, but you should take special care to ensure there are no problems with conceiving or with your pregnancy.

Instructions

1. Wait at least one month after receiving the TDAP vaccine to attempt conception, according to the March of Dimes. This is due to the fact there is limited information on its safety during pregnancy, especially in the case of the pertussis vaccination. Waiting one month will help prevent any issues with your pregnancy.

2. Determine your ovulation dates by using an at-home kit (available at many drug stores) or counting the days from your last menstrual period. Most women are fertile approximately 10 to 16 days after the first day of their menstrual period. Mark these days on the calendar with an "X" to indicate fertility.

3. Have sexual intercourse on the days you have determined you are fertile. Having sex every other day will give you the best chance for conception during any given month.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 each month until you are pregnant.

Tips & Warnings

• Some women experience lower back or abdominal pain when they are ovulating. You can also evaluate your cervical mucus, which will become thin and slippery (like the consistency of egg whites) when you are fertile.

References

• March of Dimes; Vaccinations and Pregnancy; October 2009
• Amazing Pregnancy; Ovulation and Trying to Conceive; 2011