Urgent Health Advisory: The COVID-19 Vaccine and Pregnancy

Recently, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued an urgent health advisory to doctors caring for pregnant women, women trying to conceive, and women who are breastfeeding. It called for doctors to urge these patients to get COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as possible.

According to CDC officials, COVID-19 is a severe risk to pregnant women whose immune systems are reduced and increases the risk of poor outcomes, including miscarriages, stillbirths, and severe COVID-19 disease.

Currently, only 31% of pregnant women are vaccinated against COVID-19, a percentage much lower than the general population. As of the end of September, 125,000 pregnant women have had a confirmed case of COVID-19. 22,000 have been hospitalized because of it, and 161 pregnant women have died from COVID-19.

The CDC claims pregnant women who become infected with COVID-19 have a two-fold risk of admission to an intensive care unit, and a risk of death, compared to those who are not pregnant. Babies of Covid-19 positive mothers are at higher risk for preterm birth, stillbirth, and NICU admission.

In addition, the health advisory recommends vaccinated pregnant women who received two Pfizer shots at least six months ago may be eligible for a booster for added protection.

Medical Studies

Many research studies have confirmed the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant women and those trying to conceive. Research articles claim that benefits far outweigh the known potential low risks of the vaccine’s side effects. Studies have also shown that pregnant women can pass the vaccine’s protective antibodies to their newborns.

Attribute the following to CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky, M.D., M.P.H.

“Pregnancy can be both a special time and also a stressful time – and pregnancy during a pandemic is an added concern for families. I strongly encourage those who are pregnant or considering pregnancy to talk with their healthcare provider about the protective benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine to keep their babies and themselves safe.”

CACRM concurs with the CDC statement and hopes that our intended parents and surrogates lower their risks of contracting Covid-19, especially during pregnancy.

If you have any questions about the COVID-19 vaccines, please feel free to ask Dr. Arnold.