Though, the DOH made an exception to the Russian-made Gamaleya vaccine, but did not give a reason why1.
This recommendation comes shortly after the United States stated that the vaccine did not pose any risk for pregnant women. In fact, pregnant women are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible in order to protect themselves.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC, the vaccine did not increase the risk of miscarriages among pregnant women. They stated that the miscarriage rate of those who were vaccinated was at 13%, which is within the average of 11%-16% miscarriage rate2.
Another fear that some women have is how the vaccine could affect their fertility. Based on what we know, the vaccine doesn’t affect fertility whatsoever. So if you get vaccinated, you can safely conceive.
In terms of side effects, pregnant women can expect the usual side effects associated with whatever vaccine they take. There is no increased risk of side effects for pregnant women, and there is no need to worry if they start experiencing these side effects.
Why did it take so long?
When the first COVID vaccines were rolled out, pregnant women were not included among those who were eligible to be vaccinated. However, this didn’t necessarily mean that the vaccine is unsafe, or it is harmful to pregnant women. The reason why it took so long was that research and testing needed to be done regarding the vaccine’s effects during pregnancy.
But now, with the information that we have, we can safely say that the vaccines are safe for those who are pregnant.
COVID-19 vaccines are safe, and they save lives
Pregnant women are among those who are at risk for severe COVID. In addition, those who have gestational diabetes or have obesity have an even higher risk for severe symptoms.
So it is very important for them to get vaccinated as soon as possible. While they don’t offer 100% protection against infection, the vaccines do protect patients from severe symptoms. This means that if a person gets vaccinated and they do get sick, they will most likely experience mild symptoms.
Another benefit of the vaccine is that there might be a chance that mothers can pass on some of their antibodies to their baby. In particular, women who breastfeed can pass these antibodies on, and help protect babies from infection. However, further research needs to be done in order to confirm this4.
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