In Trichy, 28-year-old Varsha (whose name has changed), is a frontline worker and has not taken the COVID-19 vaccine till now. She is worried after hearing rumours that the vaccine might affect fertility. Several women, in the 20s to 30s age group are nervous and fearful for taking the vaccine due to this reason.

Experts have bust the myths related to infertility because of the COVID-19 vaccine. There are no studies published till now stating that the COVID-19 vaccine can affect fertility in men or women.

Gynaecologists also agree that the vaccine does not affect fertility. Dr Poovathy, Dean, Pudukkottai Government Medical College Hospital and Gynecologist said that none of vaccines can cause infertility and there is no proof for such effect. It is a myth and women of this age group can take the vaccine.

Doctors said that the reports from the British Fertility Centre along with the other organizations have stated that the vaccine does not cause any fertility problems.

Dr Bhuvaneshwari, Director, Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, at Dr Rela Hospital said that the vaccine does not affect fertility. People who are undergoing IVF treatment can delay the treatment if they are taking the vaccine if they wish to. This is because the vaccine can cause fever, and a pregnant woman might get scared.  There is no scientific proof of side effects on fertility. Everyone should take the vaccine.

Doctors say that women trying to get pregnant must delay their conception for 6-8 weeks post vaccination.

Dr Vijaylakshmi Balakrishnan, Senior Consultant Infectious Diseases, at Kauvery Hospital said that they are not vaccinating pregnant women currently. Also, no need to panic if one finds out about pregnancy after vaccination, it is not harmful. There is no safety data as trials have not included pregnant women.

Dr Charmila Ayyavoo, Director of Aditi Hospital at Tiruchy said that pregnant women are not advised to take the vaccine at present as they don’t know the effects of the COVID-19 vaccine on the foetus and mother. As no studies are available, they are not advising it at present. For high risk pregnancies and on the condition of the mother, if the doctor advises, then the vaccine can be taken.

Dr Deepa Mukhundhan, Secretary, at Tiruchy Obstetric and Gynecologist Society said that in the UK, pregnant frontline workers, who are at high exposure to the coronavirus are advised to take the vaccine and it is given with informed consent.

Source: The New Indian Express