Do you have questions about vaccine safety because you’re pregnant or breastfeeding? Maybe you have fertility-related questions or you’ve heard the vaccine may affect mammogram results.
For most people, getting the COVID-19 vaccine is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) because the benefits of the vaccine outweigh any potential risks. The same applies for boosters, once you are eligible. We compiled some frequently asked questions specific to women’s health that we hope will help you make a decision that’s right for you.
Q: Should I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I’m pregnant?
A: Data shows that mortality, preterm birth and NICU admission are all elevated in pregnant women who have had COVID-19 infections. Based on current knowledge, experts believe that COVID-19 vaccines are unlikely to pose a risk to the pregnant person or fetus. Existing data suggests COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy does not increase risk of miscarriage.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, the two leading organizations representing specialists in obstetric care, recommend that all pregnant individuals be vaccinated against COVID-19. None of the currently available COVID-19 vaccines reach or cross the placenta. However, protective antibodies to COVID-19 have been shown to cross the placenta and confer protection to the baby after delivery. Discuss the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy with your physician.
Q: Is it safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine if I’m breastfeeding?
A: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend COVID-19 vaccines for lactating individuals similar to non-lactating individuals. Learn more about vaccination while breastfeeding.
Q: Should I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I plan to become pregnant soon?
A: If you’re trying to get pregnant or plan to become pregnant soon, you should get vaccinated. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine recommends vaccination before you conceive or early during pregnancy because this is the best way to reduce maternal/fetal complications. COVID-19 vaccination does not impact fertility or fertility treatments for men or women. In addition, vaccination does not induce antibodies against the placenta. You also do not need to avoid pregnancy after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, and existing data suggests COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy does not increase risk of miscarriage. Discuss the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination before pregnancy with your physician.
Q: Why can the COVID-19 vaccine cause false positives on mammograms, and should I be worried?
A: One potential side effect of the COVID-19 vaccine is swollen lymph nodes on the side of the body where you received your shot. This is a normal, temporary immune response, but it can lead to unclear mammogram results. As a result, the Society of Breast Imaging recommends you delay breast cancer screenings for four to six weeks after getting your second dose. You may also choose to schedule a mammogram before you get your first dose.
Next steps
The choice is yours to make. If you have additional questions before you make a decision, please talk to your healthcare provider.