Your baby’s vaccination appointment: what to expect

Your child’s vaccination appointment will probably be more worrying for you than your baby, but trust us, it’s nothing to feel anxious about.

 

However, we do understand that it can be a little overwhelming, particularly if it’s your child’s first appointment.

 

So to help you prepare yourself, we’ve compiled a handy guide on what to expect:

 

When you first arrive

 

The doctor will understand that you’ll feel a little anxious, so don’t be afraid or embarrassed to explain your worries. They’ll want to help put you at ease, so it’s better they know how you’re feeling when you first arrive.

 

After you sit down, the first thing they will do is give your baby a quick check-up, as the appointment may need to be rescheduled if your child has an illness like a cold or diarrhoea.

 

Here, you will also need to give your doctor important information about your baby, such as any illnesses, allergies, history of fits or convulsions, or any other medical information the doctor should know.

 

 

During the appointment

 

The doctor will more than likely ask you to hold your child firmly on your lap. Staying close to you will calm your child, and holding them firmly will help keep arms and legs still so the doctor can administer the vaccines safely.

 

A good tip too is to bring along your child’s favourite toy, or something you know will occupy or distract them.

 

How the vaccinations are given

 

Your child’s first vaccines at two months old will be the 6in1 + PCV + MenB+ Rotavirus. These will be administered via three separate injections (6in1 + PCV + MenB) and one oral vaccine (Rotavirus). The table below further shows which vaccines your child will be given, how they will be given, and when.

 

 

 

For more information on your baby's vaccinations pop over to the HSE website here.