Key Recommendations
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) strongly recommends that pregnant individuals be vaccinated against COVID-19. Given the potential for severe illness and death during pregnancy, completion of the initial COVID-19 vaccination series is a priority for this population.
- mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are preferred over J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine for all vaccine-eligible individuals, including pregnant and lactating individuals, for primary series, primary additional doses (for immunocompromised persons), and booster vaccination.
- Vaccination may occur in any trimester, and emphasis should be on vaccine receipt as soon as possible to maximize maternal and fetal health.
- For patients who do not receive any COVID-19 vaccine, the discussion should be documented in the patient’s medical record. During subsequent office visits, obstetrician–gynecologists should address ongoing questions and concerns and offer vaccination again.
- COVID-19 vaccines may be administered simultaneously with other vaccines, including within 14 days of receipt of another vaccine. This includes vaccines routinely administered during pregnancy, such as the influenza and Tdap vaccines.
- ACOG recommends that pregnant and recently pregnant people up to 6 weeks postpartum receive a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine following the completion of their initial COVID-19 vaccine or vaccine series.
- Pregnant patients who get vaccinated should be encouraged to sign up for the v-safe safety monitoring program of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).