Pregnancy is a magical time filled with excitement and anticipation. But for many women, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought unexpected fears and uncertainty. Many expectant moms worry about catching the virus, being hospitalized, or even facing complications like miscarriage, preterm birth, or low birth weight. The fear isn’t just about their health — it’s about protecting their unborn child, too.
In this article, we’ll explore what recent studies reveal, why vaccination matters, and how to stay protected for a healthy pregnancy.
What Does the Research Say?
A large study called CAP-COVID looked into how early pregnancy might be affected by the virus. Researchers followed over 3,000 women in their first trimester. The findings showed:
Women who tested positive for COVID-19 had a 14% miscarriage rate, compared to 8% in women without the virus.
After adjusting for other risk factors, the chance of miscarriage was 1.7 times higher in women presumed to be infected.
While more research is still needed, this study highlights the importance of taking precautions during pregnancy.(1)
Over 3,000 women in the first trimester of their pregnancy registered and provided outcomes. Analysis of our data showed a potential association between COVID-19 infection and miscarriage of pregnancy in the first trimester. This is an important public health finding suggesting that women in early pregnancy may need to be more vigilant with infection prevention measures.Dimitrios Mavrelos, Associate Professor, Institute for Women's Health & UCLH Reproductive Medicine Unit, UCL
Why Vaccination Matters
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine while pregnant is one of the best ways to protect both you and your baby. Here’s why:
Pregnant women are at higher risk of serious illness if they catch COVID-19.
If infected late in pregnancy, the baby could also be affected.
Vaccination reduces the risk of stillbirth.
The vaccine is safe at any stage of pregnancy — no need to wait until after birth.
There’s no evidence that it increases the risk of miscarriage or other pregnancy complications.
The vaccine does not contain live virus, so it cannot give you or your baby COVID-19.
Studies show that the majority of pregnant women hospitalized with COVID-19 were unvaccinated, reinforcing how crucial vaccination is during pregnancy. That’s why health experts strongly recommend getting the shot.(2)
Other Important Vaccines During Pregnancy
COVID-19 isn’t the only concern — there are other recommended vaccines to keep you and your baby safe:
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
TDaP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)
PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine)
Influenza Vaccine
Hepatitis B
In an Instagram post, Dr. Amna Husain talked about her preparation for newborn arrival and the importance of vaccination during pregnancy.
Vaccines during pregnancy safeguard pregnant people from potentially serious illnesses, such as the flu, RSV, and COVID-19. This protection extends to the developing baby.Dr. Amna Husain, MD, Paediatrics, North Carolina, United States
Your Baby, Your Choice: Stay Informed and Protected
COVID-19 during pregnancy is challenging, but you’re not alone. By staying informed and taking precautions like getting vaccinated, you’re giving your baby the best possible start in life. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options, and trust that you're making the right choice for you and your little one.
References:
Dimitrios Mavrelos, “SARS-CoV-2 infection in the first trimester and the risk of early miscarriage: a UK population-based prospective cohort study of 3041 pregnancies conceived during the pandemic”, Human Reproduction, Volume 37, Issue 6, June 2022, Pages 1126–1133, https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/deac062
“Vaccines for Pregnant Women”, US Health and Human Services, Last modified on January 21, 2025. https://www.hhs.gov/immunization/who-and-when/pregnant/index.html
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Dr. Hansini Bhaskaran/MSM/DP)