True or False: The varicella vaccination is contraindicated during pregnancy?

The varicella vaccination, which protects against chickenpox, is indeed contraindicated during pregnancy. This is because the vaccine contains a live attenuated virus, which poses a risk to the developing fetus. Administration of live vaccines during pregnancy can potentially lead to serious complications, such as congenital varicella syndrome, which may result in severe birth defects.

Additionally, it is recommended that women who are planning to become pregnant receive the vaccination before conception or after delivery, ensuring that they are immune without risking harm to their fetus. This aligns with the best practices in maternal health to safeguard both the mother and the child from avoidable infections.

Other considerations, such as the stage of pregnancy or existing health conditions, do not change the fundamental contraindication of the varicella vaccine during pregnancy. Therefore, understanding the nature and implications of live virus vaccinations is essential for proper patient education and care in obstetrics.