COVID-19 Increases Risks of Complications in Pregnancy

Healthcare workers answer questions about the COVID-19 vaccines.

Monica McLemore, PhD, MPH, RN, Yolanda Tinajero, MD, OB/GYN and Joia Crear-Perry, MD, OB/GYN explain during pregnancy your immune system is working overtime, which can make you more vulnerable to COVID-19 if infected. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine protects you and your baby.

 

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Monica McLemore, PhD, RN, MPH, Registered Nurse and Researcher: Pregnancy is a condition that, by definition, causes immunosuppression. Your immune system is already working overtime to keep you and your baby safe.

Yolanda Tinajero, MD, OB/GYN: During pregnancy, the body has particular changes that might actually make you more susceptible to respiratory infections. And, so, patients who are pregnant can actually develop more severe infections of COVID-19.

Joia Crear Perry, MD, OB/GYN: If you are pregnant and contract COVID-19, you’re about six times more likely to be admitted to the ICU. And you’re about four times more likely to have a baby that comes too early. So, what we want to do to decrease that risk is get you vaccinated.

This information is shared for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. The views expressed are those of the featured medical professional and reflect information available to that professional at time of filming. Always consult a health care provider for any personal health decisions. Click here for vaccine FAQs from the CDC.

Stay up to date with your COVID vaccine, including boosters!

COVID vaccines are safe and effective for everyone ages 6 months and older.

Immunity wanes over time. Keep up your protection against COVID by getting boosted when eligible.

Updated (bivalent) boosters are now available for adults and children 6 months and older. 

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