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COVID-19 vaccine - can it affect fertility?
Laurentina Schaler1,2,3, Mary Wingfield4,5,6
1Merrion Fertility Clinic, 60 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2, Ireland. lschaler@merrionfertility.ie.
Irish Journal of Medical Science
|October 15, 2021
Summary
There is no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines affect fertility. Vaccination is recommended for those planning pregnancy due to risks of severe illness and pregnancy complications from COVID-19 infection.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Vaccinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Social media misinformation has raised concerns about COVID-19 vaccines and fertility.
- Pregnant individuals face higher risks of severe COVID-19 complications, including ICU admission and death.
- There is a documented, though rare, increase in placentitis and stillbirth associated with COVID-19 in pregnancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize international consensus on COVID-19 vaccines and fertility.
- To address and counteract misinformation regarding vaccine effects on reproductive health.
- To inform healthcare providers and the public about current evidence.
Main Methods:
- Review of international consensus statements from multiple health organizations.
- Summary of preliminary studies investigating COVID-19 vaccine effects on fertility.
- Analysis of existing data on COVID-19 risks during pregnancy.
Main Results:
- No evidence currently suggests that COVID-19 vaccines impact future fertility.
- Preliminary studies indicate no link or theoretical basis for fertility concerns.
- International consensus supports vaccination for individuals planning pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19 vaccination is safe and recommended for individuals planning pregnancy.
- Combating misinformation about vaccine effects on fertility is crucial.
- Healthcare providers must be informed to guide patients effectively.
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