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COVID-19 Vaccination in Pregnancy | Pregnancy Power Hour
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Prenatal Test · routine monitoring

COVID-19 Vaccination in Pregnancy

Recommendedany trimester

The COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy is a recommended way to protect both you and your baby from severe illness caused by the virus.

3 min read

Quick answer

The COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy is a recommended way to protect both you and your baby from severe illness caused by the virus.

On this page
  1. When and how it happens
  2. What the decision means
  3. Questions worth asking

Choosing to receive the COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy is an evidence-based recommendation aimed at safeguarding your health and that of your developing baby. This vaccination is a proactive step, not a diagnostic test like the Glucose Challenge Test (1-hour), but rather a preventative measure widely supported by leading health organizations. It works by introducing your body to a harmless part of the virus, allowing your immune system to develop antibodies without you experiencing the disease itself.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) all recommend COVID-19 vaccination at any point during pregnancy. This strong consensus is built upon extensive research and real-world data. Large observational studies, including data from the CDC's v-safe pregnancy registry and findings published in the BMJ, have consistently shown no increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, birth defects, or preterm birth for those who receive the vaccine during pregnancy. This information can bring a sense of calm and clarity as you consider your options.

When and how it happens

The beauty of the COVID-19 vaccination is its flexibility: it is recommended at any gestational age, meaning you can choose to receive it in your first, second, or third trimester. The process itself is straightforward, much like any other routine vaccination you might receive. It involves a simple injection, typically in your arm, administered by a healthcare professional. For ongoing protection, boosters are recommended according to the CDC's schedule, ensuring your immunity remains robust throughout your pregnancy and beyond.

This decision point is an excellent opportunity to engage in a collaborative conversation with your care provider. You get to decide what feels right for your body and your family, and understanding the timing and process can help you feel more confident. Just as you might discuss the timing of your Group B Strep Test later in pregnancy, talking through your vaccination plan early on can be incredibly empowering.

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What the decision means

Opting for COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy carries significant benefits for both you and your baby. Evidence clearly shows that COVID-19 infection in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of severe disease for the pregnant person. This can include complications that might lead to more intensive medical care. By choosing vaccination, you are actively reducing these risks, supporting a healthier pregnancy experience for yourself.

Beyond your own health, the vaccination offers a remarkable layer of protection for your newborn. Maternal antibodies, developed in response to the vaccine, are known to cross the placenta. This means your baby is born with some level of protection against COVID-19, offering a gentle shield during their earliest, most vulnerable weeks. This passive immunity is a powerful benefit, contributing to your peace of mind. Discussing these protective elements with your provider can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your family's well-being. Your provider is your best resource for your specific situation and can help you weigh all your options.

Questions worth asking

As you navigate your prenatal care, asking questions is a vital part of making informed decisions. When considering the COVID-19 vaccination, here are a few thoughts to bring to your provider:

  • "Given my personal health history, are there any specific considerations for me regarding the COVID-19 vaccine?"
  • "Which specific vaccine type (e.g., mRNA, Novavax) is currently available, and are there any differences I should be aware of?"
  • "What is the recommended timing for my vaccination or booster, especially if I've recently had COVID-19 or another vaccine?"
  • "What are the most common temporary side effects I might expect, and what can I do to manage them comfortably?"
  • "How does this vaccination fit into my overall prenatal care plan, alongside other routine screenings like a Non-Stress Test (NST) if needed later on?"

These questions can help you gain clarity and ensure you feel fully supported in your choices.

Common questions

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe during pregnancy?+

Yes, major health organizations recommend it, and large studies show no increased risks of miscarriage, stillbirth, birth defects, or preterm birth.

Can the vaccine protect my newborn?+

Yes, maternal antibodies cross the placenta, providing protection to your baby during their earliest weeks.

When is the best time to get vaccinated?+

Vaccination is recommended at any gestational age, and boosters should follow the CDC schedule for ongoing protection.

What are the risks of COVID-19 infection during pregnancy?+

Infection is associated with increased risks of severe maternal disease, preterm birth, and stillbirth.

Brittany Nance

“Pregnancy is under-supported at every week. This is the kind of clear, calm guidance I give my one-on-one clients — and the questions worth taking back to your provider.”

Brittany Nance · Pregnancy Wellness Consultant · full-spectrum doula

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Written by Brittany Nance, Pregnancy Wellness Consultant· BADT Full Spectrum Doula · Founder, Pregnancy Power Hour
Last reviewed July 1, 2026

This is evidence-informed education from a birth-doula perspective, not medical advice. Always discuss your individual situation with your prenatal care provider.

On this page

  1. When and how it happens
  2. What the decision means
  3. Questions worth asking

Keep reading

  • RelatedIs the COVID vaccine safe during pregnancy?Leading health organizations recommend COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy, as studies show no increased risks and it offers protection for both parent and newborn.
  • RelatedFlu Vaccination in PregnancyThe flu shot during pregnancy is a recommended vaccination to protect both you and your baby from influenza, offered at any point in pregnancy during flu season.
  • RelatedIs the COVID vaccine safe during pregnancy?The COVID vaccine is widely recommended for pregnant individuals by leading health organizations, with evidence suggesting safety and effectiveness for both parent and baby.
  • RelatedShould I get a flu shot while pregnant?The inactivated flu vaccine is widely recommended for all pregnant individuals during flu season to protect both the birthing parent and the baby from severe illness and potential complications.
  • RelatedShould I get the Tdap vaccine while pregnant?The Tdap vaccine is broadly recommended between 27 and 36 weeks of every pregnancy to provide crucial protection for your newborn against whooping cough, supported by decades of safety data.
  • RelatedTdap Vaccination (Pertussis Booster)The Tdap vaccination, often called the whooping cough vaccine, is a recommended booster during your third trimester to help protect your newborn from pertussis.