A mother who passed whooping cough on to her newborn after catching it in the final two weeks of her pregnancy has sent an urgent warning to mums-to-be.
The mum, known only as Cormit, was offered a vaccination against the condition when she was 28 weeks pregnant, but she refused it because she was "healthy, fit and organic".
Sharing a video on Gold Coast Health's Facebook page, the Australian mother explained she had spent the past three weeks in hospital with her daughter Eva.
"Eva was diagnosed with whopping cough and it's been a nightmare," she explained.
"It's a lot of suffering for a baby you love so much."
The post, that has been shared more than 3,300 times, has attracted a lot of attention from parents tagging their friends to raise awareness.
"Wow. What a brave woman and so pleased she can turn this into a positive in trying to help others get the message that she was not willing to listen to," one person commented on the video.
"Hopefully it will make some people think twice before saying 'no' to the vaccination."
The post has also resonated with mums-to-be who were unsure whether to get vaccinated.
"I am hoping to get pregnant soon and was unsure about vaccinations during pregnancy," one person wrote.
"You have helped me make up my mind. Thank you. I hope your baby recovers really fast and am sending strength and love.
"You've at least reached one person (me) so sharing your story was important."
The NHS states pregnant women can protect their babies by getting vaccinated – ideally at 20 weeks, after the foetal scan, but as late as 32 weeks pregnant.
The pertussis-containing vaccine for whooping cough has been used routinely in pregnant women in the UK since October 2012.
Pregnancy worries and words of comfort
I have no morning sickness! Is that bad news?(01 of10)
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You might have read things about how morning sickness signifies a healthy level of pregnancy hormones – but not having morning sickness does not mean you're lacking! Although many women suffer with it (and 'suffer' really is the word), many other women do not. Some women have it one pregnancy, but not in another. Attend all your usual checks and count yourself as one of the lucky ones! (credit:Alamy )
I drank before I knew I was pregnant, I might have harmed the baby(02 of10)
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This happens to many, many expectant mums, and it's unlikely to be a cause for concern at all. Mention it to your GP/midwife, and just keep off the booze now, until you can enjoy a celebratory glass of fizz when your bundle arrives. (credit:Alamy )
I'll lose the baby(03 of10)
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It's estimated about one in five pregnancies ends in early miscarriage, and it's thought most of those occur simply because the foetus wasn't developing properly. It does happen, but don't let it rule your thoughts because the vast majority of pregnancies do succeed. Try not to worry and remember that once you're into the second trimester, the chances of miscarriage is dramatically reduced. (credit:Alamy )
My baby might not be 'perfect'(04 of10)
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It's estimated that one in 16 babies in the UK is born with a birth defect – but this figure refers to all birth defects, and many are mild and can be treated. So it's likely your baby won't have a birth defect, and even if they do, they will be perfect in their own way – remember support is available for every eventuality. Take your folic acid and attend your antenatal screening appointments. (credit:Alamy )
I won't make it to the hospital on time(05 of10)
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You might have read terrifying stories about pregnant women giving birth in car parks and taxis – but these stories make it to the news because they are extraordinary, in the literal sense of the word! It very rarely happens, and most women get plenty of warning that labour is beginning. So plan well, and all is very likely to be fine. (credit:Alamy )
I might have to have a c-section(06 of10)
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If you do end up needing a c-section, you might feel disappointed – but believe us, in the moment the only thing you'll really care about is the safe delivery of your baby. It won't be the end of the world and you won't care a jot when your baby is in your arms. (credit:Alamy )
I won't be able to cope during labour(07 of10)
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There is just no telling how labour will be for you, so don't worry about it now. Make your birth plan, discuss it with your partner and midwife, and go with the flow on the day (it's okay to change your mind!). There will be lots and lots of help and support at your disposal. Not to mention drugs, should you need them. (credit:Alamy )
Labour will humiliating (will I poo on the bed?!)(08 of10)
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You've heard about that then? It can happen, but the doctors and midwives have seen it all – they have experienced every possible scenario. They won't be worrying about things like that, so neither should you. (credit:Alamy )
I don't know how to be a mum(09 of10)
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No-one does until they become one! Every new mum feels like they're winging it in the early days. As your baby grows and you get to know them, you'll learn. Trust in the fact that just about every mother has gone through it… and survived. (credit:Alamy )
I'm worried about gaining all that weight(10 of10)
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You will put on weight, yes – but it's normal and nothing to be afraid of! Much weight gain is actually down to the baby, the placenta, extra blood in your system and the retention of water. Pregnancy changes your body in myriad ways – just enjoy it, and let your body just do its thing at this special time. Remember, there's no need to 'eat for two'… but eat what you need and don't count calories. (credit:Alamy )