Have you ever been knocked down by the flu? It's like being flattened by a steamroller, except your body feels like it's been run over by one for days on end. And if that's not bad enough, have you also experienced postpartum depression (PPD)? If so, then you know how devastating these two things can be separately. But what if there was a way to prevent both of them at once?
Introducing the combo shot!
Yes folks, this is the vaccine that everyone has been talking about...or maybe just me because I don't get out much.
What is the Combo Shot?
The combo shot is actually two vaccines in one injection. This means fewer needles, less pain (sign me up) and more protection against both influenza and postpartum depression.
How Does it Work?
The flu vaccine portion of the injection works pretty much like every other flu shot- it protects against seasonal strains of influenza virus as well as any new ones that may pop up throughout cold season (because let’s face it - winter seems to stick around longer than scheduled).
As far as how it helps with preventing PPD- Experts are still scratching their heads trying to figure out why exactly we're seeing such great correlation between moms who’ve had both shots together getting lower rates of postpartum depression vs those who recieved only one or none at all.
Early studies point towards some indication that since inflammation plays a role in contracting infections related to viruses which could play into settling off mood swings for mothers; Wouldn’t hurt right? Besides even if someone doesnt contract these viruses they'll still benefit from having immunibooosters floating around ready to fight whatever comes next!
So while there isn't 100% solid scientific evidence yet(it hasn’t made its way through extended clinical trials yet) , researchers believe hormone fluctuations from pregnancy mixed with being protected from illnesses such as the flu could be one mutual culprit for mothers’ healthier outcomes.
Who Should Get It?
The CDC recommends a flu shot to everyone over six months old, and especially anyone with underlying health conditions, pregnant women..which in this case they will benefit even more.
PPD affects approximately 1 in 7 new mothers according to National Institute of Mental Health. With higher rates among low-income households, having experienced depression or anxiety before pregnancy, experiencing some sort of stress (both during or after delivery) etc- things can get tough!
If you are already at risk of getting PPD and struggling where seeking mental help seems heavy on your plate right now then it’s definitely worth consulting your medical professional about adding extra immunity against viruses by opting for the vaccine combination that might just throw an extra boost forward toward prevention.
The Pros
Convenience:
~ One needle instead of two.
~ Faster Office Visits: shorter wait times than usual due to fewer people needing multiple shots.
Safety:
Both vaccinations are backed up by good safety records; if there were side effects researchers would have known by now but so far both vaccines seem well tolerated when taken together.
Protection Against Two Conditions At Once:
Get complete protection against flu AND decrease chances/ severity (or recurrence) postpartum depression at the same time.
This was just bound to happen someday considering we take combo medications all the time anyways(hey Tylenol Cold&Flu), still pretty novel here though! In any case wouldn’t hurt if it makes your life easier– sign me up!
Confidence Booster:
Hey anything that builds confidence these days is welcomed! And boy doesn't something like this just make you feel invincible!.
Wowzers - I’ll protect myself AND my baby inside + outside noutire!? You betcha Sheila! This combo shot carries plenty peace-of-mind value!
The Cons
Cost:
There’s no denying that this injection will cost more than a regular flu shot as the extra vaccine is included, and some insurance companies may not cover it yet but be your own advocate about ‘asking/loudly requesting’ Health care providers to see if they have coverage for the combination.
Availability:
Vaccines are already difficult enough to obtain supply wise, now throw in two in one stroke? If you want this combo option plan accordingly. Contact healthcare service providers/clinics months ahead of time for Early booking!!
I bet parents during April bloomers like me should secure their spaces wayyy before March even arrives!
Uncertainty with Long-Term Effects:
Testing has shown positive results so far, but long-term effects haven't been tested as extensively.
See positives outweighing negatives here.. whichever side someone finds themselves on- rest assured researchers+healthcare professionals are keeping eyes open (as per usual) just waiting for first-hand knowledge from patients who’ve received injections.
Now although still uncertain please note these unknowns refer specifically to the combination vaccine, NOT individual vaccines used alone. So we know atleast 50% safety until now!
So there you have it folks - The Combo Shot: A new weapon against both influenza virus and postpartum depression.
Is it worth getting?
Well according experts/postnatal advocates- It all depends what screams out loudest given current tricky times; overall health concerns regarding both viruses or even yourself coming priority alongside anything that could assist lower rates of postpartum depressive symptoms..
Finally its ultimately up-to expecting mothers to weigh options depending upon whats available around them while discussing safe possibilities with medical professionals right?
Better get comfy 'till we find another thing we can blend together into complete protection(: •.•) Meanwhile let's do our bit by spreading awareness!!
Stay healthy everyone!