Pregnancy Care

COVID-19 Vaccination And Pregnancy: 7 Commonly Asked Questions

As the Singapore government progressively rolls out the vaccination programme, a larger population are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. The Ministry of Health (MOH), in consultation with the Expert Committee on COVID-19, recently announced that it is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women to receive the vaccine, leading to many questions concerning the vaccine and its safety for pregnant mothers. 

Here are 7 frequently asked questions:

1. Is the COVID-19 vaccine available to pregnant and breastfeeding women?

According to the multi-ministry task force (MTF) at a virtual press briefing on 31 May 2021, pregnant and breastfeeding women will be able to register and book for a vaccination appointment from 4 June onwards, provided that they are a part of the population group eligible for vaccination. 

Source: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/pregnant-women-can-register-for-covid-19-jabs-from-june-4-cancer-patients-on-active 

2. What are the advantages of getting vaccinated in pregnancy?

The benefits of getting vaccinated in pregnancy include:

• Reduced risk of the  COVID-19 infection
• Reduction in severe COVID-19 reactions if you contract COVID-19
• Reduction in stillbirth or premature birth if you contract COVID-19

The vaccine is effective in preventing COVID-19 infection. Even if you are tested positive for the virus, the vaccine helps to reduce any critical life-threatening complications associated with the virus. For vaccinated individuals, if you have any underlying health conditions, you may still be at risk of severe COVID-19 conditions when infected.

3. Does the COVID-19 vaccine affect fertility?

The COVID-19 vaccine does not affect fertility. There is also currently no evidence that the vaccine will impact future pregnancy.  

4. Should I delay conception if I am getting vaccinated?

If you are getting vaccinated and wish to get pregnant, you are advised to consider delaying conception for a month after completing your second vaccine dose. 

If you become pregnant between your first and second dose (after your first dose and before your second dose), you are also advised to defer taking the second dose until after delivery. Should you have any further concerns, it is recommended that you consult your O&G specialist. 

5. Is it safe to have a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant?

If you are pregnant, you can be vaccinated. Internationally, pregnant and breastfeeding women have been vaccinated. The Expert Committee has examined these vaccinated individuals at different trimesters of pregnancy, and their babies. There is currently no evidence to suggest that the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines may pose any harm to pregnant women or their babies.

Source: https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination

6. When is the best time to get vaccinated during my pregnancy? 

You can get vaccinated during any trimester of your pregnancy,  even if you become pregnant after the first dose and before your second dose. 

The vaccine’s efficacy does not change according to the stage of your pregnancy. Discuss with your O&G specialist before getting the vaccine. 

7. Is it safe to have a COVID-19 vaccine if I am breastfeeding?

If you are breastfeeding, you may still receive the COVID-19 vaccine. There is no need to suspend breastfeeding when receiving the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. 

Conclusion

With the ease of COVID-19 vaccination guidelines in Singapore, pregnant and breastfeeding women are now eligible to take the vaccine as long as they belong to the current population group as outlined by the Singapore government. 

However, you should always discuss with your O&G specialist before making any decisions about the vaccine. 

Speak to our team of obstetricians & gynaecologists at SOG,  to make a more informed decision.