Receiving COVID Vaccine if Pregnant or Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to become pregnant soon, talk with your health care provider about the benefits and risks of the COVID vaccine. The following information may help you in your decision:
- The vaccine has not been tested in pregnant women, but some women who received the vaccine did become pregnant and there have been no reported problems with their pregnancies. They are being monitored closely.
- Pregnant women who have contracted COVID-19 are at greater risk for complications from the disease during pregnancy. Women with pre-existing health conditions have an increased risk of severe disease or death from COVID-19.
- You must receive both doses of the vaccine for it to be most effective. The COVID vaccine is not a live vaccine. You should not get a vaccine if you have had a severe reaction to vaccines previously.
- Some people experience side effects such as a fever, headache or muscle aches after receiving the vaccine. It is safe for you to take acetaminophen during pregnancy if these side effects occur.
- Even if you receive the vaccine, you should still wear a mask and practice good hand hygiene and social distancing. It is not yet known if the vaccine will prevent you from carrying COVID-19 to others.
You and your health care provider should discuss your unique situation. Whether you decide to get the vaccine or not, you will be supported by your health care provider in your decision. And remember to continue to wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and wash your hands to decrease the spread of COVID-19.
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (December 2020). Vaccinating pregnant and lactating patients against COVID-19. Retrieved 12/21/20 from:
Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (December 2020). COVID vaccine advice if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Retrieved 12/21/20 from: