The last twelve months haven’t been easy on anyone. But when you not only have to think about your own health but also that of your child, it can make things unbearably difficult.
But at least we now have the vaccine, right? Not surprisingly, it’s not that simple. Whilst the various Covid-19 vaccines have been a great collective scientific achievement, they’re not without controversy.
The so-called anti-vax movement has been gaining strength, and new variants are making the situation even trickier. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are understandably confused; is the vaccine safe for me and my child/ren?
In this guide, we’ll take you through what you need to think about when deciding whether to opt for the vaccine or not. Lots depends on your own individual situation, and how far along you are in the pregnancy. No situation is equal, and no blanket advice is given in this article.
Disclaimer: We are not medical experts with specialisation in Covid therefore urge you to do your own research, as well as seek advice from a General Practitioner and/or your Gynecologist. The information provided is for educational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.
Vaccine for Pregnant Women
Let’s start with the official advice: according to the CDC, pregnant women can be offered the Covid-19 vaccine. Even though the vaccine is relatively new, the vaccine is well understood by scientists who recommend pregnant women get vaccinated.
Also (at latest count), the Covid-19 vaccine has been administered to 120,000 pregnant women in the United States. The data gathered, in addition to the science of how the vaccine works, has led health experts to conclude it is not only effective in preventing coronavirus, but it is also safe for pregnant women.
Nevertheless, for those of you who prefer to take a data-led approach, the picture is a little murkier. Even though many women have had the vaccine, clinical trials are still ongoing. The data available at the present time is far from insignificant, but it is limited.
But so far, so good. Nothing has suggested that pregnant women are at higher risks. Of course, there are still risks for the general population (including you!). For example, allergic reactions or fever. Some women have also reported extra heavy and painful periods.
source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/pregnancy.html
There is also an important point that is not often thought about: what is the risk of not opting for the vaccine? According to a recent study from the United Kingdom, women who have had coronavirus shortly before giving birth may be at higher risk of stillbirths or premature births.
The risk remains relatively low, but the findings of the study show that it is higher. The research group looked at over 340,000 women, which is not by any means a small number of the sample group. The study also found that women who had tested positive also had a greater chance of requiring a Caesarean section, and children required to have specialised neonatal care immediately after birth was higher.
Furthermore, women who are pregnant or have recently given birth are at an increased risk of developing severe health complications as a result of Covid-19. This includes illness that may lead to intensive care, which may involve ventilators or special equipment to assist breathing; the CDC concluded this after studying over 400,000 women.
According to another study, pregnant women with Covid-19 are 22x more likely to die compared to pregnant women without infection, However, it is vital to note that this particular study was limited to only 2100 women.
Vaccine for Breastfeeding Women
We’ve already mentioned that the data for pregnant women and Covid-19 vaccines are still limited. But when it comes to breastfeeding women, studies are not yet complete. The CDC says “there are no data available” when it comes to the safety for both the mother and child, or on milk production.
The reason the data findings are so limited is that the initial trials excluded pregnant and breastfeeding women. This is because scientists wanted to be extra careful during the trials, with the trials designed to protect parents and babies alike. Yet based on the same scientific understanding of how the vaccine works, the CDC is still confident in noting that the vaccine is safe and poses no additional risk. In saying this, it is important to keep in mind that data is limited.
Vaccination so far has shown no adverse effects for breastfeeding women. In fact, scientists have seen that antibodies are present in breast milk, which can be passed to babies. This means that the Covid-19 adds a layer of protection to the child, in addition to helping the mum.
When it comes to making the decision in favor or against the vaccine, whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, once again ask yourself the question: what is riskier, exposing myself and my child to the side effects of the vaccine, or Covid-19? We already know Covid-19 can be deadly, whereas the jury is still out on the vaccine.
Another point you may want to think about is whether you believe you are likely to get infected. Your household may be extra careful compared to others, or you may live in a secluded area where you don’t really interact with many people. If you’re in a low risk area, is it worth taking into consideration? Should you wait until there is more data?
Finally, consider what you think about the risks of the vaccine on the whole. Data show that there is not much difference in terms of illness or risk when comparing pregnant and breastfeeding women, and women who are neither. If you think the vaccine is safe for the ‘average woman’, then it is likely safe for you also.
You’re the Mum!
Let’s leave you with this message: you’re the mum, you make the decision, in other words ‘mum’s the word’. Our position on whether you should obtain the vaccine or not is neutral; it is your body and your decision. Our advice is designed to help you make that decision, not push you in one direction or another.
Others shouldn’t pressure you into making a decision either way (for and/or against the vaccine) don’t feel obliged to follow their advice if you’re not personally comfortable. It’s your body, your choice. Do what is best for the health of your child (and yourself, never forget self-care!), instead of doing what others think is best for you and your situation.