HealthyWomen Statement on HHS Recommendations Regarding COVID-19 Vaccination During Pregnancy

HealthyWomen shares the concerns of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and other medical associations about the health and safety of pregnant people and newborns in the United States following the recent announcement that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will no longer recommend Covid-19 vaccination during pregnancy. This decision may significantly impact how pregnant people make healthcare decisions and undermines their ability to make informed choices for themselves and their families.

Covid-19 remains a serious threat. Getting a Covid-19 infection during pregnancy puts patients at higher risks for severe illness, and newborns rely on maternal antibodies for protection in their early weeks of life. The removal of this recommendation creates confusion, despite clear and consistent scientific evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of Covid-19 vaccines during pregnancy.

This abrupt departure from established guidance may cause people to forgo vaccination or lose access to the vaccine because of changes in insurance coverage — a particularly troubling outcome for those already facing health disparities.

The science has not changed. A Covid-19 infection during pregnancy can be catastrophic, and vaccines are a proven safeguard. This policy shift undermines confidence in vaccination at a time when trust and access are essential.

HealthyWomen urges HHS to reverse this decision and uphold evidence-based guidance that protects the health of pregnant people, newborns and their families.

This article was originally published on healthywomen.org.