The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) has reaffirmed that COVID-19 vaccination is safe and strongly advised for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
This statement comes amid conflicting messages from the United States, where some officials recently advised against the vaccine for healthy children and pregnant women.
Pregnant women who contract COVID-19 face higher risks of severe illness, hospitalization, and intensive care compared to non-pregnant women. Vaccination helps reduce these risks and lowers the chance of complications such as preterm birth.
Dr. Darine El-Chaar, a maternal fetal medicine specialist at The Ottawa Hospital and spokesperson for the SOGC, emphasized that scientific evidence supports vaccination during pregnancy. She noted that the vaccine also offers some immunity to the baby.
Contrary to claims made by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has a history of opposing vaccines, there is no scientific data suggesting harm from COVID-19 vaccines in pregnant women or infants. The SOGC warns against misinformation and encourages relying on evidence-based science when making health decisions.
Pregnant women, especially those who received their last vaccine over six months ago, are urged to get vaccinated. Dr. El-Chaar summarized the importance by saying, “One vaccine, two lives,” highlighting protection for both mother and child.
