Effects of Taking COVID-19 Vaccine among Pregnant Women: A Prospective Cohort Study

Aim and background:The COVID-19 vaccine played a crucial role in fighting the pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2).This study aimed to investigate the potential side effects of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy and its impact on both the mother and neonate, compared to preconceptional vaccination.Materials and methods: A single-center prospective cohort study was conducted, in which eligible women who had received the COVID-19 vaccine were categorized into two groups: Those who took the vaccine preconceptionally and those who took it antenatally.The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire.All women were followed until delivery, and maternal and neonatal complications were recorded.Results: A total of 247 women were included in the final analysis, with 122 women in the preconceptional group and 125 in the antenatal group.Most women received the Covishield vaccine, followed by Covaxin.The most common side effect following vaccination was mild fever, and most symptoms had a mean duration of 2 days.Women vaccinated during pregnancy had a significant decrease in the mean gestational age at delivery (264 14 days vs 269 10 days, p = 0.002) and a higher incidence of preterm birth (OR 2.04; 95% CI 1.04-4.00).Moreover, women vaccinated preconceptionally had a slightly better protection from the illness (93.4 vs 92%).Conclusion: Our study found a significant increase in preterm birth among mothers who received the COVID-19 vaccine antenatally.Therefore, preconceptional vaccination may be considered a safer alternative to prevent complications during pregnancy.Clinical significance: It is imperative to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant women are proven safe and pose no risks to either the mother or the newborn before they are incorporated into routine immunization.