COVID-19 vaccines in pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Infectious Diseases
• Vaccinology

Background:

• COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) poses significant health risks to pregnant women, including severe illness and adverse fetal outcomes like preterm labor.
• Pregnant women were initially excluded from clinical trials for coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines, raising concerns about their safety and efficacy.
• The routine rollout of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines has led to the inclusion of pregnant women, necessitating a review of available data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize current evidence on the safety of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines in pregnant women.
• To evaluate the immunogenicity and effectiveness of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines, particularly mRNA vaccines, in pregnant populations.
• To provide a comprehensive overview for healthcare providers and policymakers regarding coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination during pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• This study conducted a narrative review of existing literature.
• The review focused on evidence concerning mRNA coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines, given their widespread use in pregnant women.
• Data synthesis encompassed safety, immunogenicity, and effectiveness.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests mRNA coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines are safe for pregnant women.
• The vaccines demonstrate robust immunogenicity in pregnant individuals.
• Effectiveness data indicate protection against coronavirus disease 2019 infection and severe outcomes in this population.

Conclusions:

• mRNA coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines are recommended for pregnant women due to demonstrated safety and efficacy.
• Vaccination during pregnancy is crucial for protecting both maternal and fetal health against coronavirus disease 2019.
• Continued monitoring and research are important to further understand long-term impacts and vaccine performance.