On August 11, the CDC made a significant announcement. For the first time during the pandemic, they strongly recommended that all pregnant individuals receive the COVID vaccine. CDC Director Dr. Emily Carter stated, “The CDC urges all pregnant individuals, those considering pregnancy, and breastfeeding individuals to get vaccinated to safeguard themselves against COVID-19.” She emphasized, “The vaccines are both safe and effective, and it’s crucial to boost vaccination rates now.”
This guidance comes during a spike in cases driven by the Delta variant, with only about 25% of pregnant individuals having received at least one vaccine dose, based on CDC data. We spoke with Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a prominent high-risk maternal-fetal OBGYN in New York City, to unpack the key takeaways regarding the COVID vaccine for pregnant individuals.
Most Pregnant Individuals Should Get Vaccinated
The CDC, alongside the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), strongly recommends vaccination for all pregnant people. Dr. Mitchell reiterated this advice, confirming that “most pregnant individuals should get the vaccine” and noted that it’s uncommon to advise against vaccination at this time. Pregnant individuals can and should receive the vaccine as soon as it is available, without waiting for a specific trimester.
Increased Risk of Severe COVID in Pregnant Individuals
Pregnant individuals face a heightened risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Dr. Mitchell explained that even those with “no underlying risk” may end up hospitalized after a COVID infection. Research indicates a threefold increase in ICU admissions for pregnant individuals, a 2.5-fold increase in the likelihood of requiring mechanical ventilation, and a 1.5-fold increase in the risk of death. The dangers extend beyond the mother; complications for the baby can include preterm birth and increased risk of stillbirth, as highlighted by Dr. Laura Green, a maternal health expert.
Safety of the COVID Vaccine
The vaccines are deemed safe for pregnant individuals. Dr. Mitchell reassured that “there is no harm in taking the vaccine,” emphasizing that there is no risk of infertility or menstrual irregularity associated with it. Early data from the CDC supports these claims, showing no safety concerns for vaccinated pregnant individuals. Furthermore, studies indicate there is no increased risk of miscarriage for those vaccinated within the first twenty weeks of pregnancy.
Preferable Vaccine Options for Pregnant Individuals
Dr. Mitchell recommends the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines for pregnant individuals. She pointed out that the Johnson & Johnson vaccine has shown “lower protection against the Delta variant” and carries a rare risk of blood clots. The CDC has also alerted women under 50 to this risk while noting that the other vaccines do not present similar concerns.
Weighing Benefits Against Risks
In summary, pregnant individuals, regardless of risk status, face a greater likelihood of serious illness from COVID-19. Vaccination not only protects the individual but also provides some immunity to their baby. Experts, including epidemiologist Dr. Mark Thompson, agree that the benefits of vaccination far exceed any potential risks, especially given the current transmission rates of COVID-19. Dr. Mitchell highlighted the pressing need to appreciate the vaccine, stating, “We were fortunate to develop this vaccine quickly enough to prevent a repeat of last year’s crisis.”
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In conclusion, the consensus among healthcare professionals is clear: vaccination is a critical step for pregnant individuals to protect themselves and their babies from the dangers posed by COVID-19.