Planning to get pregnant
If you are thinking about starting a family visit your GP for a pre-conception consult.
There are many things you can do to improve your health and minimise the risk to your baby, all before conceiving.
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Measles is a highly infectious disease and can have serious complications for pregnant women and their babies, including miscarriage, early labour and stillbirth.
To protect yourself and your baby, it's important to get vaccinated against measles at least 4 weeks before trying to get pregnant because you can't have the measles vaccine during pregnancy.
If you were born after 1965, you can get up to two free measles vaccinations. (Consultation fees may apply.) You need two doses of the measles vaccine for full protection. Most people in this age group have already had one dose as a child but need a second dose to be fully protected.
If you’re not sure if you've had two doses of the MMR vaccine, check your immunisation record or speak with your doctor.
Read more about measles and the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine.
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Your GP will provide you with expert advice on planning your pregnancy. The preconception period (3 months before pregnancy) is the time to make life changes for you and your partner that can help boost fertility, reduce problems during pregnancy and assist in recovery from birth. Some women can even increase the likelihood of conceiving.
Other considerations when planning to get pregnant are:
King Edward Memorial Hospital (external site) provides consumer information on women's and newborns’ health for patients, their families and carers, health professionals and the general public. The library is based at King Edward Memorial Hospital.
Where to get help
Last reviewed: 02-05-2022
Acknowledgements
Public Health
This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.