The CDC has strongly recommended COVID-19 vaccination for pregnant women and has issued an urgent health advisory in this regard earlier during this week, which also includes recently pregnant women (including those who are lactating), those who are trying to conceive, or who might become pregnant in the future to prevent morbidity and adverse pregnancy outcomes and even death.

As per the health advisory, the benefits of vaccination for both pregnant women and their child outweigh the risks, known or potential. And, all clinicians involved in the case of the pregnant women must educate them on the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines.

Pregnant women are at risk of developing severe COVID-19 with 2-folds greater chances of ICU admission; mortality is also 70% higher. They are also at an increased risk of adverse pregnancy (such as preterm birth, stillbirth) and neonatal outcomes (the newborn can also become infected with COVID-19 and require intensive care).

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has supported the CDC’s call for urgent action to increase COVID-19 vaccination among pregnant women. In a statement, J. Martin Tucker, MD, FACOG, president, on behalf of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) said, “Our message cannot be stronger or clearer: please get vaccinated today. Whether you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to become pregnant, or plan to get pregnant in the future, vaccination is safe and effective, and is the best way to protect you from severe complications associated with COVID-19 infection. Further, I urge my fellow ACOG members and all maternal health colleagues to strongly, confidently, and clearly recommend COVID-19 vaccination to their pregnant patients.”

Based on the recommendations from National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI), the Health Ministry has also approved vaccination of pregnant women against COVID-19 provided the pregnant woman may be counselled about the risks of exposure to COVID-19 and also about the risks and benefits associated with the COVID-19 vaccines that are currently available, so that she can take an informed decision. According to the  “Operational Guidance for COVID-19 Vaccination of Pregnant Women”, the pregnant woman could be vaccinated at any time of the pregnancy.

(Source: CDC & ACOG, Sept. 29, 2021;MOHFW)