As the Delta variant of COVID-19 continues to spread, two prominent organizations in obstetrics and gynecology are strongly advising pregnant individuals to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. This guidance comes amid growing concerns about the variant’s high transmissibility, comparable to that of chickenpox. Recent studies indicate that COVID-19 vaccines do not adversely affect pregnancy or fertility.
Dr. Sarah Johnson, president of the American Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ASOG), emphasizes, “We urge our members to actively recommend vaccination to their patients, highlighting the proven safety of the vaccines and the heightened risk of severe complications, including death, associated with COVID-19 during pregnancy.”
The ASOG and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) have based their recommendation on extensive research involving tens of thousands of pregnant individuals, confirming that the vaccines are safe for use during pregnancy. They also pointed out the concerning low vaccination rates among pregnant individuals, with only about 22 percent having received at least one dose of the vaccine.
With recent data showing that over 95 percent of those hospitalized or succumbing to COVID-19 are unvaccinated, both organizations are urging pregnant individuals to get vaccinated promptly. Dr. Johnson notes, “It is crucial for pregnant people to feel assured in their choice to vaccinate. A strong recommendation from their healthcare provider could significantly influence their decision.”
Those who choose to delay vaccination until after delivery may unknowingly expose themselves to a greater risk of severe illness or death. Additionally, individuals who have recently given birth and were not vaccinated during pregnancy are also strongly advised to receive the vaccine as soon as possible.
“Getting vaccinated is the best way to minimize maternal and fetal complications of COVID-19 among pregnant individuals,” states Dr. Emily Carter, president of SMFM.
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Additional Resources
If you’re looking for more information, you might find these queries useful:
- COVID-19 vaccine safety during pregnancy
- Benefits of COVID-19 vaccination for pregnant people
- Impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy outcomes
- Vaccination rates among pregnant individuals
- Guidelines for pregnant individuals regarding COVID-19
In summary, leading health organizations are advocating for COVID-19 vaccination among pregnant individuals to mitigate risks associated with the virus. The vaccines have been shown to be safe, and the benefits of protecting both mother and child are clear.
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