A year after the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the globe, two different vaccines are finally being rolled out. While this seems to have been a long time coming to all of us who have been living under lockdown for the past 12 months, it is actually the quickest vaccine development process in history. The speed with which the vaccine has been produced means that some shortcuts were taken during the clinical trials. One of the most important gaps in our knowledge is the effect that the vaccines will have on pregnant women. This means that moms-to-be will need to think hard and decide whether getting the shot is the right move, or if they should wait until their babies are delivered. Glenmed Professional Healthcare Solutions looks at some of the main questions surround the matter.
Factors For Pregnant Women To Consider Before Getting Vaccinated
The COVID-19 vaccines are rolling out across the world, and everyone is soon to get their turn. Pregnant women must look at their own histories and risk factors to determine if they should get the shot before giving birth, or wait until later. The basic choice is between taking the shot and risking the possible side effects or risk catching the virus during pregnancy. While the overall risk of severely symptomatic COVID-19 is low, pregnant women do have a higher chance of being admitted to intensive care if they catch the coronavirus. This would indicate that, despite the unknowns regarding the effects of vaccines on pregnant women, taking the jab is the less risky option.
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Minor Side Effects
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG) says that there is no reason to withhold the vaccine from women who are pregnant or lactating. There is also no reason to believe that the vaccine has any link to infertility, miscarriage, vaccine or any harm to the reproductive systems of either women or men.
Ultimately, the decision lies with individual women as to whether they want to take the vaccine while pregnant. As they consider the various factors, they should think about their particular risks of personal exposure to the virus where they live or work, as well as other risk factors, such as obesity, diabetes or lung disease. All of these may increase the risk of severe COVID-19 vaccines.
It is not a simple decision to make and expectant couples are advised to speak to their obstetricians before making the call.
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