Claims linking the COVID-19 vaccine with infertility are not backed by scientific evidence.
That’s according to recent studies and Dr. Adib Khouzami, a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Physician at Conemaugh Health System.
“All these claims about the vaccine affecting fertility are really a hoax,”
After collecting data from tens of thousands of people over the last several months, the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine released updated guidance last week.
“SMFM recommends that pregnant, postpartum, and lactating people and those considering pregnancy receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Vaccination is the best method to reduce maternal and fetal complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection,” researchers write.
The CDC reports that, despite these research findings, 22% of pregnant women have received one or more doses of the vaccine.
“The immune response of pregnant women have been very good. So, there are some circulating antibodies that will protect them during pregnancy.” Dr. Khouzami says.
Dr. Khouzami says getting the actual COVID-19 infection is the true danger, not the vaccine.
According to the CDC, people who are pregnant are more likely to become severely ill, require hospitalization, intensive care or ventilation from COVID-19.
Dr. Khouzami says they may even be at increased risk for negative pregnancy outcomes (like premature labor, still birth, and caesarean section delivery).
“There are many complications that can happen in pregnant women who get COVID. So, it’s better to get the vaccine so that you will be protected,”
He made another point: studies have shown an increase in fertility and birth rate since COVID-19.
So, he said if COVID doesn’t affect fertility, it only makes sense that the vaccine wouldn’t either.
“If really the COVID infection affects fertility, we would’ve seen a decrease in the fertility rate. On the other hand, we are really seeing an increase in fertility in some areas,” he told 6 News.
But what about those who say the vaccine was “rushed” and it’s still “early,” so how could we know for sure?
“It was not really rushed, because the vaccine has been in development for a long period. They were using it for other viruses, and they just applied it for this virus,” Dr. Khouzami says.
“It was approved quickly because we needed it. It was proven to be efficacious. So, it’s really important to get the vaccine,”
