What vaccines are contraindicated during pregnancy?

The correct answer focuses on the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) and Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccines, which are live attenuated vaccines. During pregnancy, live vaccines are generally contraindicated because they have the potential to affect the developing fetus. There is a risk that these vaccines could cause fetal harm, particularly because the immunological response of a pregnant person may not effectively protect the fetus.

Rubella infection during pregnancy can lead to serious complications, including congenital rubella syndrome, which can cause birth defects. The varicella virus can also cause complications such as congenital varicella syndrome if a mother contracts the infection while pregnant. Therefore, because of the significant risks associated with these diseases and their potential impact on fetal health, it is recommended that women avoid these live vaccines during pregnancy and ensure they are vaccinated prior to conception.

Other options include vaccines that may not be contraindicated during pregnancy or are inactivated and generally considered safe, making them less relevant to the specific context of live vaccine contraindications in pregnant individuals.