If you are one of the many women who are currently pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding during the COVID pandemic, it can be challenging to know the best ways to care for yourself and your baby. Luckily new information is coming out every day to help guide new parents in making healthy decisions for their growing families.
What are the experts currently saying about the COVID vaccine for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
- For pregnant women, the CDC is currently stating that the COVID vaccine is recommended. Although research is limited, the CDC states that the vaccine is unlikely to pose a risk to pregnant women or their infants. Reports have shown that moms who receive the COVID vaccine while pregnant will pass on antibodies to their infants.
- For breastfeeding women, the CDC states that there is currently no data on the effects of the vaccine for the breastfed baby. However, they also say that there is not thought to be a risk to the lactating mother or the breastfed baby based on how the vaccine works. Studies have also shown that antibodies are passed to infants through their mother’s breastmilk, which can help protect the infants.
- For those trying to conceive or planning to conceive in the future, the CDC states that based on current evidence getting a COVID vaccine should not affect your chances of conceiving in the future. There is no need to wait to get the vaccine because you are planning to conceive.
How do I decide what to do?
The best choice is the one that works best for you and your family. Medical decisions can be discussed with your healthcare provider. New data is coming out every day as we learn more about COVID and the COVID vaccine.
Sara Matsuura is a nurse writer for Matsuura Medical Writers LLC who has experience working in many specialties within the health care industry. Her background includes outpatient care, inpatient care, wound care, infusion therapy, insurance authorization, and account management. One of the specialties that she is most passionate about is postpartum health for families.
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References:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/pregnancy.html
Author: Mile High Mamas
