Health
COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance for Expectant Moms
Health Points
- Leading medical organizations continue to recommend COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant individuals to protect both mother and baby.
- Recent CDC changes have created confusion by omitting clear guidance for pregnancy, prompting concern among health experts.
- Consulting with healthcare providers is the best way for pregnant people to find access to vaccination and reliable advice.
Recent changes in CDC guidance have left many expectant mothers uncertain about if and how to get a COVID-19 vaccine this year. Although official recommendations are less direct now, top experts continue to endorse vaccination during pregnancy for the health of both parent and child.
Maternal health specialists emphasize that their advice has not wavered and that research continues to show vaccines are safe and effective during pregnancy. Receiving the COVID shot greatly reduces the risk of severe illness and provides newborns valuable early protection.
“I’m getting questions about COVID vaccination and pregnancy on an almost daily basis,” says Dr. Justin Brandt, associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.
Dr. Mark Turrentine, a specialist at Baylor College of Medicine and immunization expert, notes, “Millions of pregnant women and billions of people have gotten the COVID vaccine. We have a great safety and efficacy track record, and so it has not changed.”
Dr. Neil Silverman, a professor at UCLA, describes the shifting recommendations as part of a “battle on public health” and highlights the confusion this brings to patients.
Currently, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine agree that pregnant individuals—or those considering pregnancy or lactation—should get vaccinated against COVID-19. Research confirms that vaccination lowers the chance of severe complications, including hospitalization or pregnancy loss.
Recent CDC guidelines now require shared decision-making between patients and their medical providers, but have not stated an explicit recommendation for those who are pregnant. The lack of clarity has led to frustration and additional hurdles when trying to find where to receive the vaccine.
For those seeking vaccination, talking with your OB-GYN is the best first step. Pharmacies, doctors’ offices, and clinics still offer the vaccine, but calling ahead is advised to confirm availability and provider willingness, especially in light of the updated guidelines.
Be proactive and advocate for your health—partnering with your healthcare team can help you make informed, confident decisions for you and your baby.
