Expectant mom wants to ensure her newborn will be safe

Published: Monday, February 23, 2026 at 5:00 am

Expectant Mother Navigates Family Vaccine Concerns

A pregnant woman, due in five months, is facing a challenging situation with her family regarding newborn safety. Her doctor has recommended that anyone visiting the baby in the first three months be up-to-date on specific vaccinations, including Tdap, flu, COVID, and RSV (for those aged 60 and over). The expectant mother and her partner have decided to adhere to the doctor's recommendations to ensure the baby's well-being.

However, some family members are hesitant to comply with the vaccination recommendations. They have suggested alternative safety measures, such as testing and mask-wearing, which the expectant mother believes are less effective. This situation is causing her significant stress, particularly as she has previously encountered resistance when setting boundaries with her family. She is seeking advice on how to navigate this delicate situation.

The advice columnist, responding to the expectant mother's query, emphasizes the mother's primary responsibility for the baby's safety. The columnist strongly advises following the doctor's medical guidance. The columnist also acknowledges the difficulty of changing others' minds and suggests maintaining distance from those unwilling to respect the parents' wishes and take necessary precautions.

BNN's Perspective:

This situation highlights the complex intersection of personal beliefs, medical advice, and family dynamics. While respecting individual autonomy is important, the primary concern should always be the health and safety of a vulnerable newborn. The expectant parents are acting responsibly by prioritizing their child's well-being and following medical recommendations. It's a difficult situation, but the parents are right to prioritize the health of their child.

Keywords: vaccines, newborn safety, expectant mother, family conflict, medical advice, Tdap, flu, COVID, RSV, boundaries, health, parenting, doctor's recommendations, baby, pregnancy

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