An expert with the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) is addressing concerns about potential risks for pregnant women receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
Dr. Eva Pressman, Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the URMC, says concerns started when initial studies of the vaccine did not include patients who were pregnant, according to Rochester First.
“We now have the data. That data is that the vaccine is very safe, that there are not direct harms from the vaccine in pregnant people — other than the small risks of allergic reactions in all patients,” said Dr. Pressman.
Pressman said COVID-19 infection during pregnancy is the real danger.
New moms who are vaccinated and breastfeeding may actually see direct benefits to their baby as a result of the vaccine. Research has shown antibodies developed in the mother’s body could be passed on to their baby through milk. This give babies protection against COVID-19 they wouldn’t have otherwise had since there is currently no shot authorized for infants.
Pfizer has asked the FDA for an emergency use authorization for its infant vaccine.
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