Many have asked about the impact of the covid-19 vaccine on pregnant and breast/chestfeeding people. It is totally understandable that parents are concerned and have questions. I am a nursing parent and I had questions throughout the pandemic and as the development of the vaccines were underway. Trust that all of your questions are valid! It is imperative to ask questions to get the reassurance that you need to make a decision about the vaccine. I always stress the importance of obtaining answers from knowledgeable individuals equipped to provide evidence-based answers rooted in science. Opinions (we all have them) are awesome, however, this is a dynamic where facts matter. Please speak with your Primary Care Physician, Midwife, OB GYN or other medical professional to obtain accurate information tailored to your medical needs.
I never provide a definitive yes or no response when my clients inquire about whether or not to obtain the vaccine. I admit that I do have strong personal opinions (and feelings), however, they are not to be confused with facts and science. The research is readily available and I prefer to provide reputable online resources where one can study the research and read the outcomes. From there I strongly urge the individual to utilize the information to engage their medical doctor in a conversation about next steps.
Is the vaccine safe for pregnant and breast/chestfeeding people? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports the following:
- COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for all people 12 years and older, including people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant now, or might become pregnant in the future.
- Evidence about the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy has been growing. These data suggest that the benefits of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine outweigh any known or potential risks of vaccination during pregnancy.
- There is currently no evidence that any vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines, cause fertility problems in women or men.
- Pregnant and recently pregnant people are more likely to get severely ill with COVID-19 compared with non-pregnant people.
- Getting a COVID-19 vaccine can protect you from severe illness from COVID-19.
In closing, there is tons of research and information readily available online. Not all information is good information as some of it is rooted in personal opinions and myths that have been debunked. I have compiled a list of reputable sources as a starting point to answer the question: “Is the vaccine safe for pregnant and breast/chestfeeding people?” Begin by clicking on the links below to read the information. Next, take time to write a list of questions or concerns about the information found within the links. Lastly, take the compiled list to your medical provider for clarification.
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/pregnancy.html
https://www.muhealth.org/our-stories/should-pregnant-and-breastfeeding-women-get-covid-19-vaccine
https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2021/07/421041/no-sign-covid-19-vaccine-breast-milk
http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/2021/08/24/breast-milk-covid-19-antibodies/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK565969/
Until Next Time,
💙Salimah
Peace, Love & Breastmilk™
The Maziwa Tribe blog does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Content from Maziwa Tribe’s blog is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. The information provided on this blog is intended for general consumer understanding. The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your family doctor or other medical professional to obtain medical advice.