Pediatrician Gripe: Splitting Up Vaccinations

What You Should Say

Instead of suggesting an alternative immunization schedule, express your concerns to your pediatrician. Try, "Putting needles into my baby seems like such an unnatural act. And there are so many of them to give these days. Can you reassure me that administering all of these vaccines is the right thing to do for my baby?" Open up the subject with your clinician, so you can express your fears and glean authoritative medical information.

Many pediatric offices are ready for vaccine concerns and are armed with authoritative information. Your pediatrician can direct you to websites or written materials that are accurate and credible.

Helping Parents Deal

Pediatricians are well aware of the stresses of parenting, and we know that deciding on the immunization of your child is one of many tough choices you're forced to make. Giving immunizations requires discussion and informed consent prior to their administration.

But immunizing your baby is probably the most important single health intervention you will provide for your child. Don't passively allow your child to be immunized—get all the data so that you are making an educated decision that you can feel good about. Because vaccines are an intervention that you should feel good about.