Morgan called late Friday afternoon with a question about COVID-19 booster shots. She shared that she was 37 weeks along and had received both shots of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine back in February, at the very beginning of her pregnancy. Morgan wanted to do what was best to protect her baby, and asked if she qualified for the booster shot that was now available. As a Teratogen Information Specialist at MotherToBaby California, COVID-19 vaccine questions are my number one inquiry right now. …
The Baby Blog: Infections & Vaccines
Hit Me With Your Best Shot! COVID-19 Vaccines
Question 1: I work in healthcare and received the first dose of COVID vaccine. But after receiving the shot, I found out I was pregnant. I changed jobs so that I am not at significant risk anymore. Should I get the second shot? Question 2: I’m pumping and supposed to get the COVID vaccine. I know there isn't much to say on the COVID vaccine but wondering if you would recommend getting it or not? These are just a sample of the questions that we have received from …
Ho, Ho, Ho, Who Wouldn’t Go? Holiday Travel in the Time of COVID-19
Chelsea’s chat came through late on a Wednesday afternoon: “Hi, I’m 23 weeks pregnant and have plans to visit my family in a different state this holiday season. My sister just had a baby and is breastfeeding, and my grandparents will also be there, so I want to be as safe as possible with COVID-19 still spreading. What do you think I should do?” With Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa all quickly approaching, questions like this are coming into our chat service more frequently. …
Pregnant & the Flu Vaccine? Why It’s More Important Than Ever during the COVID-19 Pandemic
“I just found out I am pregnant. I’ve heard that it is really important to get the flu shot this fall, but is it still OK now that I am pregnant?” The woman on the other end of the phone line sounded cautious and concerned. I told her, “I’m so glad you called to ask about this. The influenza vaccination may be even more important for pregnant women. The coronavirus pandemic has given us a lot to worry about without adding influenza infections to the mix. Let …
Beyond the Virus: Your Questions during the Era of COVID-19
As the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 continues to spread, pregnant and breastfeeding women are understandably concerned. Many of your recent calls, chats, texts, and emails to MotherToBaby have been about the virus itself and how it might affect a developing baby or breastfed infant (more about that on our COVID-19 fact sheet). But we’re also hearing related concerns about how to stay safe and healthy while pregnant or breastfeeding during the pandemic. Here, we answer some of the most common …
