COVID-19 can cause pregnancy complications.

Pregnant women with COVID-19 are more likely to get seriously ill than non-pregnant women of the same age with COVID-19. This means they are more likely to need to be admitted to hospital, or even to an intensive care unit (ICU), and to need help breathing (invasive ventilation).

COVID-19 during pregnancy can also cause complications for the baby, such as stillbirth and premature birth.

The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective and free for pregnant women. A United States study of more than 35,000 pregnant women showed no difference in side effects between those who were pregnant and those who were not. Women who were pregnant did not show any unique side effects.  A recent Canadian study showed that infants born to a mother who had a COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy had a lower risk of severe health problems after birth, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admission, and death.

If you are pregnant, please talk to your GP, obstetrician, midwife or pharmacist about getting vaccinated against COVID-19. It is the best way to protect yourself and your baby from this serious illness.