The pandemic has brought pain and heartache for millions of individuals throughout the spread of COVID-19 and its variants. Thankfully, a vaccine became available in record time and offered freedom again. Due to the vaccine, lockdowns are slowly being lifted, and people are returning to their regular lives. Unfortunately, however, only 57% of the American population is fully vaccinated.

This number steadily increases as the weeks continue, but many people will not see reason and mistrust the vaccine and, therefore, may never take it. Anti-vaxxers have many reasons for their beliefs, from outdated studies to religious convictions, to conspiracy theories—all of which are not adequate reasons to deny the vaccine. The truth is vaccines are 95% effective in preventing COVID-19.

It is understandable to have some hesitancy in receiving this vaccine if not fully informed. Researching the vaccine from credible sources and trusting science is a great place to start. Especially people with underlying conditions, immune diseases, or expected mothers should do their research.

Pfizer and Pregnancy

It’s reasonable to be cautious about receiving the vaccine during pregnancy. Some people may wait until the baby is born to receive the vaccine or may not take it until the end of nursing—neither need to happen. An expected mother can take the vaccine with no safety concerns to her or her baby.

The Center for Diseases Control concluded that the Pfizer Vaccine did not affect pregnant persons. Instead, it continues to have the same effect on pregnant persons as none pregnant persons. Likewise, the buildup-up antibodies from the expected mother protect the baby from infections and viruses. There are continued trials to conduct accurate readings of pregnant persons, and the trials will continue for the unforeseeable future. Meaning, we will have new information as the years go on to support previous claims.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is perfectly safe after a woman has received the Pfizer vaccine. None of the components within the vaccine are known to harm the child. So when a breastfeeding person feeds the baby, there is nothing to worry about. The vaccine will most likely not make it to the breastmilk in its journey in protecting the mother’s body. This is because the muscles absorb most of the vaccine. However, the antibodies that the vaccine produces will transfer to the breastmilk. Meaning the baby will receive all the benefits of the vaccine without taking it.

Reluctant Mothers

An expected mother should look into receiving the vaccine to protect herself and her child from COVID-19. Of course, some pregnant people may continue to doubt the effectiveness of the vaccine. It’s best to continue to research the topics and even speak to a healthcare professional. Encouraging a pregnant person to talk to their doctor to explain the positive effects of the vaccine will help her see the importance of the vaccine.

Try to be understanding about pregnant people and their anxiety about this new vaccine. They ultimately want to protect their child. Give them space and provide them with the evidence mentioned so they will understand the actual benefits of receiving the vaccine. It will be beneficial to both mother and child.