According to the CDC, only 40% of pregnant people in the U.S. had been vaccinated against COVID-19 by January 1, 2022. Sadly, this low vaccine uptake is having tragic consequences.
đź’Ą Vaccination during pregnancy:
➡️ Is safe (no connection with miscarriage or fertility).
➡️ Protects against hospitalization and death (both mother and baby) associated with COVID-19 during pregnancy.
➡️Provides antibodies that protect the newborn baby after birth.
Pregnancy is a risk factor for severe COVID-19. Pregnancy causes many changes in the body, including suppressing some aspects of the immune system so the body doesn’t reject the growing fetus. Blood volume expands dramatically during pregnancy, putting more strain the cardiovascular system. Lung capacity is reduced by the growing uterus pushing up the diaphragm.
Compared to those of a similar age, those infected with COVID-19 during pregnancy are more likely to be admitted to the ICU, to be put on a ventilator and to die. COVID-19 in pregnancy is also associated with increased risk of pregnancy complications including pre-eclampsia, preterm birth and stillbirth.
A recent study reviewed all pregnancies in Scotland since the start of the vaccine program in December 2020. A stunning *98%* of hospital ICU admissions due to COVID-19, and *ALL* baby deaths were among those unvaccinated at the time of their COVID-19 diagnoses. These tragic outcomes are preventable.
Antibodies also cross the placenta during pregnancy, providing protection for the baby beyond birth. In one study, 94% of babies whose mothers were vaccinated had detectable SARS-CoV-2 antibodies 2 months after birth, and 60% after 6 months. This was compared to only 8% of babies born to mothers with previous COVID-19 infection who had detectable antibodies at 6 months. Antibodies are also passed to babies via breastmilk.
The U.S. CDC, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – ACOG, NHS in England, and the UK Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists RCOG all STRONGLY recommend vaccination if pregnant or breastfeeding. See their guidance linked below.
đź’ĄBOTTOM LINE:
If you are pregnant but have been hesitating to get the vaccine, the time is NOW. The vaccines are safe for you and your baby–but COVID-19 is NOT.
All COVID deaths are tragic, but those happening to young families anticipating a moment of great joy are especially heart-breaking. Let’s use the amazing tools science is giving us and #VaxUp.
The CDC has partnered with MotherToBaby, where anyone can ask experts about pregnancy and COVID-19 vaccination. They can be reached at 1-866-626-6847 or can live chat or email.
Love,
Those Nerdy Girls
Links:
Excellent summary of current data
“SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination rates in pregnant women in Scotland.”
“Latest data reinforces the safety of COVID-19 vaccinations in pregnant women”
