PREGNANT women are being urged to get their vaccinations this winter.

Vaccinations can work as a way of preventing illness and disease for the woman and their baby.

Rhia Heron, head of corporate communications at NCIC, had all of her vaccinations during her recent pregnancy.

She said: "When you are pregnant, it's an exciting time but also nerve-wracking as some things are out of your control.

"Having the vaccinations is something you can do for your baby and yourself to keep as healthy as possible."

Pregnancy changes how the body responds to infections such as flu. Having flu increases the chances of pregnant women and their babies needing more intensive care.

It’s recommended that all pregnant women have the flu and Covid vaccines, whatever stage of pregnancy they are at. They are free for pregnant women.

There is strong evidence that pregnant women have a higher chance of developing complications if they get flu or Covid, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.

This is why the NHS recommended all pregnant women should have their flu and Covid jabs as soon as possible.