With a new baby on the way we’re facing the vaccine dilemma again. I didn’t feel informed about the vaccine controversy when Benjamin was born and so just went with our pediatrician recommendations. Benjamin is healthy and happy even with oodles of vaccinations but he did struggle with reflux as an infant and had eczema. Possibly (probably?) completely unrelated to vaccinations. But I just want to do a better job this time of educating myself. I’ve flipped through Dr. Sear’s Vaccination Book and read a couple of articles that are anti-vax. Most of the information I can find that is pro-vaccine hasn’t given me very much information other than, “Don’t listen to anti-vax alarmists. Vaccinate your child or they are endangered.” I don’t want to vaccinate simply because I’m afraid but I also don’t want to do something that might actually endanger my child. At this point I don’t feel certain whether vaccinating or not vaccinating is more dangerous.
So, Mamas, did you vaccinate? What have you read that convinced you one way or another? I’d really like to read some peer-reviewed articles on this subject. There’s tons of anti-vax web sites but it’s hard to tell which are actually reliable.
At this point my concern with vaccinations are two-fold. One aspect is the danger to the immune system that vaccines may cause and the other concern is the additives such as mercury and formaldehyde going into the child’s system.
Thoughts? Please comment respectfully. I have friends that feel strongly about both sides and of course every mama wants to do what’s best for her baby.
Praying for Daniel & you: May the Holy Trinity grant you guidance in this decision and direct you to trusted and wise counselors.
Coram Deo,
Mama
Praying for Daniel & you: May the Holy Trinity grant you guidance in this decision and direct you to trusted and wise counselors.
Coram Deo,
Mama
I struggled with this as well when I was pregnant with Jax. In the end I didn’t find enough compelling evidence to convince me that not vaccinating and leaving him open to preventable disease was a good option. I did strongly consider doing a delayed schedule, so that the additives are not put into his system in such a high dosage. I ended up following AAP quidelines, but I still think a delayed schedule is an excellent option for those who are a little weary of vaccines. Dr. Sears has a delayed schedule, so not sure if it’s in that book you have.
Also keep in mind when they start school, children have to have proof of being updating on all vaccinations before they are able to be enrolled. I don’t know if you were planning on homeschooling, but it’s something to think about.
I know you’ll make the right decision for you, no matter what it is. Follow your Mama instincts! 🙂
I hope you’re feeling better and I can see you soon! I want to see that gorgeous bump!
I struggled with this as well when I was pregnant with Jax. In the end I didn’t find enough compelling evidence to convince me that not vaccinating and leaving him open to preventable disease was a good option. I did strongly consider doing a delayed schedule, so that the additives are not put into his system in such a high dosage. I ended up following AAP quidelines, but I still think a delayed schedule is an excellent option for those who are a little weary of vaccines. Dr. Sears has a delayed schedule, so not sure if it’s in that book you have.
Also keep in mind when they start school, children have to have proof of being updating on all vaccinations before they are able to be enrolled. I don’t know if you were planning on homeschooling, but it’s something to think about.
I know you’ll make the right decision for you, no matter what it is. Follow your Mama instincts! 🙂
I hope you’re feeling better and I can see you soon! I want to see that gorgeous bump!
Here’s a great resource for parents wanting to vaccinate thoughtfully.
http://vaccinepapers.org/
I have six kids, the oldest of whom were vaccinated. The other four are not and are much healthier. We stopped vaccinating as a precaution after my oldest son experienced regressive autism following a round of vaccines. By the grace of God, we brought him back through dietary intervention, homeopathy, supplementation, and prayer. He and my vaccinated daughter still have some sensory issues and lots of food sensitivities, but their more serious issues have dissipated (thank God). I’m not saying it happens to everyone, but adverse reactions can be chronic and debilitating, even deadly.
Only you know what’s best for your family. I just encourage everyone to be sure they research the vaccines beyond looking at what the CDC website has to say. For me, there’s no worse feeling than the guilt of knowing I damaged my children by blindly following my pediatrician’s advice.
I realize this is an old post, and I understand why so few people have commented on it. This issue gets as divisive as abortion. As someone who declines vaccines, I have been labeled dangerous, hysterical, and anti-science. But I’m just a mom following my God-given instincts about what is best for my kids. I know you are, too. (: