A new analysis presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics conference, based on data from over 1.2 million pregnant women through fall 2023, confirms that COVID-19 vaccination is both safe and beneficial for maternal and fetal health.

The study found no increase in pregnancy complications such as hypertension, preeclampsia, or gestational diabetes among vaccinated women, supporting current medical guidelines.

Vaccinating during pregnancy also provides passive immunity to newborns by passing antibodies, offering some protection until they can be vaccinated at six months old.

Recent research confirms that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of infection and adverse outcomes, including a 58% lower risk of infection, 25% lower stillbirth risk, 17% fewer birth defects, and 34% fewer preterm births before 28 weeks.

Vaccination appears to protect the placenta from COVID-related damage and may reduce pregnancy complications like fever, which can negatively impact fetal development.

Despite some uncertainty due to vague CDC guidance and state laws, healthcare providers are likely to offer the vaccine during routine prenatal visits, though access depends on individual provider discretion.

Pregnant women face higher risks from COVID-19, such as severe illness and hospitalization, and vaccination helps mitigate these risks, promoting safer pregnancies and healthier births.

These findings reinforce recommendations from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics that pregnant women should receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Overall, the review indicates no significant increase in maternal or neonatal risks from vaccination, with some evidence suggesting a reduction in stillbirth and preterm birth rates.