Pre-pregnancy Vaccine for Chickenpox (Varicella)

Before trying to get pregnant, it's a good idea to find out if you've had chickenpox before or received the vaccine. If you don't have proof of either, you can take a blood test to see if you have antibodies against chickenpox.

If you have never had chickenpox and haven't been vaccinated, it's important to get vaccinated before becoming pregnant. The vaccine contains a live weakened virus and cannot be given during pregnancy.

Why it’s important to get the chickenpox vaccine before pregnancy

Getting chickenpox while pregnant raises the risk of serious illness and complications, like pneumonia. It also increases the chances of having a baby with birth defects.

Vaccine composition

The vaccine contains live attenuated chickenpox virus.

When to get the shots and how many you need

The vaccine is given in two shots, spaced at least one month apart. You need to wait at least one month after the second shot before trying to get pregnant.

Where to get the vaccine

The vaccine is available at HMOs or health bureaus and requires payment.