The fall season has officially come upon us. Because this season is also known as the flu season, many children and adults are beginning to go to the doctor and get vaccinated. One group who could especially benefit from vaccinations is women in perimenopause. Let’s learn about the key vaccinations you must obtain to keep your immune system healthy.
Why Vaccines Are Important During Perimenopause
Vaccines are important no matter what age or stage in life you’re in. But women in perimenopause especially need vaccinations to keep their immune system healthy. This is because your immune system changes when you’re in this stage of life. Illnesses such as the flu or measles can be more severe for midlife women. Adults over the age of 20 are the highest at risk of developing complications from one of these diseases. The hormonal changes that come with being in perimenopause could have an impact on immune response.
Key Vaccinations to Consider This Fall
It’s essential to stay up-to-date with your vaccinations to prevent the spread of contagious illnesses, such as the flu, cold, and COVID-19. The CDC recommends that adults under the age of 50 receive one dose per year of the seasonal influenza vaccine to protect against the flu. The Tdap and TD vaccines are beneficial to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, or whooping cough. Doctors recommend one dose of Tdap as an adult, followed by one dose of Tdap or TD every 10 years. Other vaccinations that are beneficial for perimenopausal women are the COVID-19 booster, pneumonia, and shingles, depending on your age.
Misconceptions about Vaccines and Menopause
However, many people choose not to get vaccinated because of the common misconceptions about them. Some have become sick after getting vaccinated with the flu vaccine or other vaccinations. There are others who may have had an allergic reaction to vaccinations and shouldn’t get them. If this is you, it’s definitely best to talk with your doctor about this. For those experiencing perimenopausal symptoms, some may think their symptoms could become worse if they get vaccinated. There is no scientific evidence to support this.
Health Tips to Protect Your Immune System
Besides being up-to-date with your vaccinations, such as the influenza vaccine, COVID-19, etc., there are vital health tips that are more like reminders in protecting your immune system. Getting plenty of rest is always an important one. Eating healthy fruits and veggies that could give your immune system a boost is a must. When you’re dealing with perimenopause, your stress levels are likely to go up. Managing your stress with breathing exercises, stretching, meditating, etc., helps in protecting your immune system. Certain vitamins could be helpful in strengthening your immune system. Developing a habit of exercising is beneficial, too.
Talk with Your Provider About a Seasonal Health Plan
Of course, every midlife woman is different and may need her own particular health plan. So it’s important to ask your provider the right questions concerning the right vaccinations for you and when it’s the right time to get them. Based on your perimenopause symptoms, your doctor may create a seasonal health plan that doesn’t worsen them.
Fall vaccines are not just important for children. They’re vital for adults, too. Vaccinations such as the flu vaccine, COVID-19 vaccine, or the MMR are especially important for women in perimenopause because of their changing immune system. If you don’t have any allergies or other health issues that prevent you from being vaccinated, take action to protect yourself against preventable diseases. Consult with your doctor on the vaccinations that are right for you.
What fall vaccinations do you prefer to get to protect your immune system? If you’re in the perimenopausal stage, what benefits to your immune system do vaccinations provide for you? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. As always, be sure to like or share this post with the next woman you know.
