COVID-19 Vaccines in Pregnancy

• Both the Society of Obstetricians & Gynecologists of Canada (SOGC) and the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend that pregnant women (without contraindications) receive vaccination against COVID-19.

• You can be vaccinated in any trimester of pregnancy or when breastfeeding.

• Pregnant women should receive a booster dose when recommended.

• If you have questions about the COVID vaccine in pregnancy, please ask your obstetrician. We are happy to discuss your concerns!

• You can book your COVID vaccine here.

COVID-19 Infection in Pregnancy

• Although the risk of severe illness is low, when compared to non-pregnant women, pregnant women with COVID-19 are at higher risk of admission to hospital, critical care, and invasive ventilation (intubation).

• When compared to non-pregnant women, pregnant women are at increased risk of mortality due to COVID-19.

• Risks of severe morbidity from COVID-19 in pregnant women appears to be associated with risk factors including age ≥ 35 years old, asthma, obesity, preexisting diabetes, preexisting hypertension and heart disease.

• COVID-19 infection in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of pre-eclampsia (severe high blood pressure of pregnancy), blood clots, pre-term labour and stillbirth.

• Masking and social distancing are helpful preventive measures but COVID-19 vaccination is the only reliable way for pregnant individuals to protect themselves, their families and their pregnancies.

• Read the ACOG COVID-19 in pregnancy/breastfeeding FAQ here.

• Read the SOGC committee opinion on COVID-19 in pregnancy here.

Recommended Social Media Accounts

• Pandemic Pregnancy Guide: What to expect when you are expecting during a pandemic (Instagram Account)

• Dear Pandemic (Instagram Account)

• Covid Vaccine Facts (Instagram Account)