There was initially some hesitation regarding the use of the newer COVID-19 vaccines and pregnant patients, with professional organizations recommending that the decision to receive the vaccine should be based on a careful discussion of risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.
Taking a stronger stand on the matter, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) now recommend that all pregnant individuals be vaccinated against COVID-19.
ACOG has published a document entitled COVID-19 Vaccines and Pregnancy: Conversation Guide for Clinicians to help healthcare providers educate patients about the vaccine and its risks and benefits.
In addition, the CDC published some simple guidelines to help healthcare providers and pharmacists discuss the COVID-19 vaccine with patients.
- Actively listen
- Use patient-centered communication techniques (e.g., open-ended questions)
- Empathically respond to questions and concerns
- Give a strong recommendation
- Close the conversation ensuring they know you are open to talk again if desired
Ruta Nonacs, MD PhD
ACOG and SMFM Recommend COVID-19 Vaccination for Pregnant Individuals
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