Why not to put off your COVID-19 vaccine if you are pregnant

Healthcare workers answer questions about the COVID-19 vaccines.

Monica McLemore, PhD, MPH, RN explains that pregnant people should not wait to get vaccinated because they will miss an opportunity to pass antibodies or defenses to their baby and are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine protects you and your baby.

 

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I mean, first of all, if you want to wait to have your vaccine until you’re postpartum, number one, you’re going to miss an opportunity to provide some passive immunity and protection to your baby. Um, because we do know that, that happens. You will also miss an opportunity to potentially protect yourself from having COVID-19 during your pregnancy and to minimize its effect, even if you are exposed to COVID-19 because we know the vaccines keep you from severe cases and ending up in the ICU as a pregnant person.

So, you have no 100% guarantee that you won’t at some point be exposed to COVID. So those are the two big reasons I would encourage you to be able to receive the vaccines before you decide to wait and postpartum, um, because you know, it can pass passive immunity to your baby and it can, can keep you out of the ICU as a pregnant person if you do contract COVID while 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 boosters are available for adults and children 6 months and older. 

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