Critical Hospitalizations of Pregnant Individuals with COVID-19 are Increasing

I find it disheartening to consistently discuss grim topics related to COVID-19, but we wouldn’t be in this situation if everyone, including pregnant individuals, would take responsibility by wearing masks and getting vaccinated. Do people really think Delta is just an airline?

Last Wednesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urged all pregnant individuals to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Due to low vaccination rates among this demographic—only 23% have received at least one dose—hospitals in areas with high COVID-19 transmission are experiencing a rise in severe cases among unvaccinated pregnant individuals. (Here’s me giving a side-eye to states like Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, and Texas AGAIN. For states that claim to be pro-life, they certainly don’t seem to care about the lives of pregnant individuals.)

According to the CDC, around 105,000 pregnant women in the U.S. have contracted COVID-19, with nearly 18,000 (17%—almost 1 in 5) requiring hospitalization. Approximately 25% of those hospitalized have needed intensive care, and 124 have died.

“CDC strongly encourages all pregnant individuals, those considering pregnancy, and breastfeeding individuals to get vaccinated to safeguard themselves against COVID-19,” stated CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky in an August 11 announcement. “The vaccines are safe and effective, and it has never been more vital to boost vaccination rates as we confront the highly transmissible Delta variant and witness severe outcomes among unvaccinated pregnant individuals.”

COVID Vaccine Safer Than Contracting COVID During Pregnancy

It’s frustrating that I even have to say this. Why must the CDC plead with pregnant individuals to get vaccinated? This has been a pressing question since the vaccines became available.

Evidence shows that receiving the COVID-19 vaccine while pregnant is a safer choice than contracting the virus, especially with the Delta variant being 60% more contagious and potentially leading to severe illness.

Reasons for Pregnant Individuals to Get Vaccinated Against COVID-19

Pregnant individuals infected with COVID-19 face a heightened risk of requiring intensive care, being placed on ventilation, or even dying. Though the overall risk of death remains low, there’s also an increased likelihood of premature birth, which can lead to serious health issues for the newborn, such as respiratory or chronic health problems.

Moreover, newborns have contracted COVID-19 after birth from unvaccinated mothers, as their immune systems are still developing. Pregnancy naturally suppresses the immune system to protect the fetus, making pregnant individuals more susceptible to the virus. Furthermore, women of color, particularly Black and Hispanic women, often face higher risks during pregnancy due to systemic healthcare and economic disparities.

A June CDC report indicated that only about 16% of pregnant individuals were fully vaccinated, with vaccination rates among Black and Hispanic women or those aged 18 to 24 ranging from 6% to 12%, significantly lower than the general U.S. population’s 50%.

COVID Vaccine Safety for Pregnant Individuals

Rumors regarding vaccine effects on fertility or fetal development have been debunked, yet fears persist. However, leading health organizations now recommend the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy.

Just recently, the CDC shifted its guidance, now urging all pregnant individuals to get vaccinated promptly due to the rapid increase in Delta variant cases. On July 30, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) encouraged healthcare providers to “enthusiastically recommend vaccination” for pregnant individuals.

There’s now ample data regarding the COVID vaccine’s effects on pregnant individuals. ACOG and SMFM’s latest recommendation aligns with evidence affirming the vaccine’s safety during pregnancy based on tens of thousands of reports over recent months, coupled with the concerning rise in cases.

Real-world data indicates that the vaccines are not only safe but may also offer some protection to newborns. The CDC found no increased risk of miscarriage among approximately 2,500 pregnant women who received the mRNA COVID vaccine (Moderna and Pfizer) prior to 20 weeks, with miscarriage rates consistent with the general population.

Additionally, initial results from a New England Journal of Medicine study involving 35,000 pregnant women indicated no increased risk to mothers or babies related to the COVID vaccine.

I understand that during pregnancy (I’ve been pregnant four times myself), individuals are extra cautious about what they consume. However, the greater harm lies in succumbing to a preventable disease and missing out on witnessing your child grow.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or recently gave birth, please consider getting your COVID-19 vaccine. Don’t wait until it’s too late. For more insights on this topic, check out another blog post here. You can also find valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination at MedlinePlus and explore expert advice on at-home insemination kits at Make a Mom.

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Summary:

The CDC is urging pregnant individuals to get vaccinated against COVID-19 due to rising hospitalizations among unvaccinated expectant people, particularly during the Delta variant surge. Evidence shows that vaccination is safer than contracting the virus during pregnancy, which poses serious risks to both mother and child. Despite initial concerns, the vaccines have proven to be safe, and health organizations strongly recommend them for pregnant individuals. It is crucial for those who are pregnant, planning to conceive, or recently gave birth to consider vaccination to protect themselves and their newborns.