Debunking the myths of infertility and pregnancy
The COVID-19 vaccine is to help prevent the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Currently, there are three vaccines authorized for emergency use in the United States:
- Pfizer-BioNTech-Pfizer
- Johnson & Johnson/Janssen
- Moderna
Does the vaccine cause infertility?
No, the vaccine does not cause infertility.
According to the CDC, there is no evidence that supports that the COVID-19 vaccine causes infertility, or problems getting pregnant, for either females or males. You don’t need to avoid pregnancy after receiving the vaccine if you are trying to become pregnant now or in the future.
Can my period change if I am near someone who had the vaccine?
No. Your period or menstrual cycle cannot be changed if you are near someone that had the COVID-19 vaccine. However, there are many things that can change your period. Such as stress, sleep problems, getting sick, changes in your schedule, diet and exercise. Pregnancy can also affect your period. If your period is late or you think you may be pregnant, take a pregnancy test or talk to a healthcare provider.
Is it safe for me and my baby to get the vaccine while pregnant?
There is limited data available about the safety of the vaccine for people that are pregnant. However, it’s unlikely for the vaccine to pose as risk for you and your baby if you get it while pregnant.
Early data from clinical trials are promising. The data hasn’t shown any safety concerns for pregnant people who got the vaccine or for their babies. Additionally, studies in animals that got one of the three vaccines before or during pregnancy found no safety concern for the pregnant animals and their babies. Since the data is still ongoing, the data will continued to be followed and monitored.
However, people that are pregnant have a greater chance for a more severe illness form COVID-19. While the overall chance is low, pregnant people are more likely to have a severe illness compared to non-pregnant people. Severe illness may result in:
- Hospitalization
- Intensive care
- Ventilator or special equipment to breathe
Additionally, pregnant people with COVID-19 have a greater chance of preterm birth or other adverse pregnancy outcomes compared to pregnant women without COVID-19.
If you are pregnant and are unsure about the COVID-19 vaccine, it’s best to talk to a healthcare provider.
Getting vaccinated for COVID-19 is your choice. If you pregnant or trying to become pregnant and are unsure if you should get the vaccine, take control today and find a healthcare provider near you.
