When my state announced that pregnancy qualified as a condition for receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, I quickly seized the opportunity to register. As I exited my car, battling the sleet, I envisioned a sunny day filled with joy — a stark contrast to the icy reality, with snowflakes hitting my maternity coat and two masks clinging to my face. Despite my excitement, I felt a tinge of uncertainty, but it wasn’t about the vaccination itself.
Weeks earlier, after learning I was eligible for the vaccine, I reached out to my healthcare provider for guidance. Was it safe to get vaccinated while pregnant? Should I postpone until postpartum? Their response was clear: “All of our providers recommend the COVID-19 vaccine. It is safe to receive it before, during, and while breastfeeding.” After enduring ten months of pandemic anxiety, I longed for the protection the vaccine could offer, and it was reassuring to hear my doctors support vaccination for pregnant individuals.
However, my mixed feelings stemmed from questioning whether I deserved the vaccine given its limited availability. At 34, I could work remotely, leaving my home only for outdoor family activities or to pick up my toddler from daycare. I had no significant health issues beyond pregnancy, and I worried that by the time I returned for my second dose, I might no longer be pregnant.
On January 19, my state broadened its vaccination criteria to include those with health conditions at higher risk for severe COVID-19 symptoms — and pregnancy was listed. The next day, I logged on to schedule my appointment, feeling a mixture of gratitude and guilt. For those considering the benefits of home insemination and fertility, resources like CDC’s infertility statistics can provide valuable insights. You can also explore fertility boosters for men to enhance your chances.
For further information on becoming a new mother, check out this expert resource, which provides guidance on navigating motherhood.
In summary, I chose to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at 35 weeks pregnant, driven by a desire for safety and the reassurance from my healthcare providers. Despite initial doubts about my eligibility, I felt empowered to protect myself and my baby during this challenging time.