Why are pregnant people more at risk from COVID-19?

Yolanda Tinajero, MD, OB/GYN explains when you are pregnant you are more vulnerable to COVID-19 if you get infected because of changes to the immune system. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine protects you and your baby.

More FAQ Videos on pregnancy, fertility & the COVID vaccine 

Patients who are pregnant can actually develop more severe infections of COVID-19. During pregnancy. The body has particular changes that might actually make you more susceptible to respiratory infections. That’s why it’s so important to receive not only the COVID-19 vaccine, but the flu vaccine and the Tdap vaccines as well.
Some of the risks associated with COVID-19 infections during pregnancy include developing severe symptoms of COVID-19, and these would include requiring to be hospitalized, to receive treatments, to try to treat the infection, but that might also require admission to an ICU intubation and mechanical ventilation. It can also increase the risk of stillbirth and preterm deliveries in patients who are pregnant.

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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OB/GYNs, NURSES AND MIDWIVES ON THE COVID-19 VACCINES 7

THE CONVERSATION: Between Us, About Us.

Doctors, nurses, researchers and community health care workers provide facts and dispel misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccines in this FAQ video series from KFF with the Black Coalition Against COVID and UnidosUS.

A series for parents and caregivers created in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics provides the latest on the COVID-19 vaccine for kids.

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