COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy The COVID-19 vaccine is strongly recommended in pregnancy. The UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has determined that pregnant women are considered an “at risk” group for COVID-19. Vaccination is the best way to protect women and their babies against the known risks of coronavirus in pregnancy. It is important that pregnant women get the COVID-19 vaccine during the winter vaccination programme, as this is when you’re most at risk. The vaccine can be given at any stage during pregnancy. Please speak to your midwife to find out more. More information on the COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy is available at NHS Inform UK Government’s guide on the COVID-19 vaccination: pregnancy and breastfeeding Breastfeeding The JCVI has advised that the COVID-19 vaccine can be given to women who are breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed, you can continue breastfeeding as normal after vaccination. Vaccinated women produce antibodies which help protect them against COVID-19 disease. These antibodies are also found in breast milk and may help protect breastfed babies. Fertility There is no evidence to suggest the COVID-19 vaccine affects fertility in women or men. You do not need to avoid pregnancy after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
