Decades have passed since Louise Joy Brown was the first baby born through in vitro fertilization (IVF). Though the technology’s advanced since that first IVF birth in 1978, understanding of who IVF can help and what it achieves has lagged behind.
Many people are aware that the first batches of COVID-19 vaccines have been made available in the state of California. As a result, we have received several questions regarding the vaccine and its safety profile in pregnant women and in those hoping to conceive soon. Here is a brief summary of the pertinent information regarding the vaccines as it may apply to our patients.
The only FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine as of December 16, 2020, is an mRNA vaccine:
This type of vaccine is distinct from other forms of that are considered to be contraindicated in pregnancy, known as "live" vaccines (i.e. Rubella or varicella/Chicken Pox vaccines). Live vaccines have the theoretical potential of transmitting the virus to the fetus, and thus are not recommended to be admistered in pregnancy, however the COVID-19 vaccine does not have the same theoretical risk.
No data supports increase risks of miscarriage or stillbirth with COVID-19 infection, however there are some risks of COVID-19 in pregnancy which include greater chances of severe COVID-19 symptoms, including hospitalizations and admission to intensitve care, as well as a higher risk of complications in pregnancy, including preterm deliveries, when comparied to pregnant women without COVID-19.
Recommendations regarding pregnancy and the COVID vaccine that are supported by The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (sMFM) and
the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) are:
The decision whether to receive the vaccine is highly dependent on each individual's risk/benefit profile. For further discussion and questions, schedule time to have a detailed discussion with your provider to help clarify any questions you may have.
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