The following resource guide was developed to help answer commonly asked questions expectant and new mothers have about the COVID-19 vaccine. This guide answers nine commonly asked questions and includes a tip sheet on how to speak with your doctor, as well as a resource page with links on how to contact us and book an appointment.
The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are messenger vaccines that provide your body with the “blueprint” of the COVID-19 virus.
This blueprint helps your body fight the virus.
mRNA COVID-19 vaccines do not contain the virus.
Pregnant women are considered high risk for COVID-19 and are more likely to to be hospitalized than nonpregnant women.
Pregnant women who end up in hospital are more likely to be in the ICU.
Getting COVID-19 while pregnant can be harmful to your baby.
The COVID-19 vaccine does not affect your baby.
Your body will produce antibodies after vaccination and these antibodies will help protect your baby.
The vaccine is not detectable in breast milk from vaccinated mothers.
Currently homebound vaccinations are not available unless you have a serious health concern.
If you think you are eligible, contact our office for more information.
Common side effects are:
Soreness at the injection site on your arm
Tiredness
Chills
A mild headache
These symptoms should go away 1-3 days after vaccination.
Make a list before your appointment with any questions or concerns you have. Bring the list to your appointment and ask your doctor the questions.
If you don’t understand something your doctor is saying, let them know. Ask them to explain things in a way you can understand.
Ask your doctor to go through a pros and cons. What are the good or bad things about getting vaccinated?
Ask your doctor to provide you with any additional material. You can take this information home with you and look it over.
Remember that this vaccination is your choice. Your doctor should help you feel informed. If you feel uncomfortable talking about vaccination or would prefer to continue the conversation later, let your health care provider know.
Make sure you understand as much as you can about COVID-19 and about the vaccine. Ask a trusted source, such as your obstetrician, midwife, family doctor or nurse.
Think about your own personal risk….The risk of getting COVID-19 is much higher if:
You live in a community with a lot of COVID-19 cases.
You have regular contact with people outside your home.
You live in a crowded housing situation.
You or a member of your household, work in a high-risk environment (e.g., you are a front-line essential worker or healthcare worker)
Tips and video to help support your mental health including depression, anxiety, your isolation and the isolation of others in your life after COVID-19