Simplest way to explain delayed/selective vaccination schedule?

[greenmom17]

I have a 8m dd who has had some vaccinations, delayed, but I've decided to stop all until she is 2 years old to let her immune system develop. I have well child visit coming up and I'd like to share my thoughts, but I tend to get very nervous and forget my train of thought.

What is the simplest way to expain my reasons for delaying? Is there a link you can suggest that I could "rehearse?" before our appt.?

I also have a 4yr old son with Sensory Processing Disorder, Verbal Apraxia, ADHD, GI issues and seems to have a weaker immune system. He has gross/fine motor delays as well as mild hypotonia. Our baby appears to be floppy as well - sitting up but falling over without catching herself. She is rocking on all fours and rolling, but I feel she resembles my son in certain ways.

Thanks for any guidance you can send my way!


**also posted in selective vaccination forum

[Marnica]

Originally Posted by greenmom17

I have a 8m dd who has had some vaccinations, delayed, but I've decided to stop all until she is 2 years old to let her immune system develop. I have well child visit coming up and I'd like to share my thoughts, but I tend to get very nervous and forget my train of thought.

What is the simplest way to expain my reasons for delaying? Is there a link you can suggest that I could "rehearse?" before our appt.?

I also have a 4yr old son with Sensory Processing Disorder, Verbal Apraxia, ADHD, GI issues and seems to have a weaker immune system. He has gross/fine motor delays as well as mild hypotonia. Our baby appears to be floppy as well - sitting up but falling over without catching herself. She is rocking on all fours and rolling, but I feel she resembles my son in certain ways.

Thanks for any guidance you can send my way!


**also posted in selective vaccination forum

Honestly enough said! No need to explain your reasons given you have an older child with multiple issues.

[ammiga]

Just tell the doctor you have decided to put off any more vaccines until your child is 2. If he asks why, just tell him that you are uncomfortable until your daughter physically matures a bit more. If he pushes, simply thank him for his input, but don't engage in any back and forth conversation. You won't convince him of anything. He will either respect your choice (even if he disagrees with it), or he won't. But there is nothing you will say that will convince him you are correct. You can always end the conversation with that you will go home and think about what he has said and talk it over with your dh.

[greenmom17]

Thank you both - and I forgot to add that dd is already showing an allergy to milk through congestion and excema. Cleared up when we went to soy.

I'm afraid the ped will ask what my son has to do with getting my dd's vaccinations.

Vaccinations produce an immune response, correct? An over active immune system can produce allergies, right?

Just trying to get the cliff note version. I know it's lame, but any help you can give would be appreciated.

[Angela512]

As the parent who makes the decisions about your children, you do not owe the doctor an explanation. I would just say, "We have decided not to get any vaxes this visit. Thank you." You don't need to engage in a narrative about the hows and whys you do not want to vax, etc. If the doctor tries to convince you...a simple changing of the subject should cement your point.

[zmom2010]

Imo

I posted this somewhere else too....but it didn't show up here. SOrry if I posted in the wrong site.....

Greenmom,

I am doing a delayed schedule with my son. I do not believe that any free society should be able to force any medical proceedure on its citizens. My reason for delaying is b/c I have had vaccine reactions myself (to MMR, hepB and tentanus boosters) as well as have autoimmune disorder. I explained to my doctor that b/c of my extreme reactions, I would rather be safe than sorry. ESPECIALLY since a child under 2yoa should not have Benadryl, and thus, even treating for an allergic reaction to a vaccine could harm my child.
IMO, a rational doctor would understand your concern of having an immediate family member with developmental problems. If your doctor insists you use a "cookie-cutter" approach to immunizations, then I would seriously suggest finding a new doctor/Nurse Practitioner who actually looks at a patient as an individual. We did not have luck at a pediatrician office, however, have found that the family practice we go to is much more willing to work with us. If you haven't been to vacinfo.org, maybe there is something that can help you.
In fewer words: "Because of my other child's problems, I want to delay shots until the blood-brain barrier is fullly formed. I'd rather be safe than sorry."
I know I'm probably not much help, but I hope you get the information you need somewhere! Good luck.