The fifth wave of the epidemic in Hong Kong is still escalating, with the number of confirmed cases rising continuously. Daily confirmed cases have hit new highs multiple times. Pregnant women are a high-risk group. The Hospital Authority has called on pregnant and breastfeeding women to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to reduce the risk of severe illness. However, many pregnant women are concerned about the side effects of the vaccine. To address the questions of expectant mothers, Parents' Kingdom has invited paediatrician Dr. Tsui Tsz-wan to share precautions for pregnant women getting vaccinated.
Over the past two weeks, more than 60 pregnant women have tested positive for the virus, exceeding the total of around 50 cases recorded over the previous two years, representing a significant increase.Dr Xu Ziyun stated that pregnant women belong to a high-risk group; those who have not been vaccinated are more likely than the general population to develop serious complications if they contract the virus, including a twofold increase in the risk of preterm birth and a 50% increase in the risk of infant death or miscarriage.
Currently, Hong Kong offers two vaccines, Sinovac and BioNTech. Dr. Tsui Chi- Kwan stated that both vaccines can be used for pregnant women, and the Hong Kong College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists currently recommends BioNTech as the preferred choice. She added that data from many studies shows that pregnant women who are vaccinated against COVID-19 can reduce their risk of hospitalisation and death.
When is the best time to get vaccinated during pregnancy?
Expectant mothers have to undergo different checks at various stages of their pregnancy. Even if they intend to get vaccinated, what is the most suitable stage of pregnancy for vaccination? Dr. Xu Ziyun stated that pregnant women can receive vaccines at any stage of their pregnancy. However, it is generally believed that the fetus is not stable in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, with a risk of miscarriage. If pregnant women have concerns, they can get vaccinated in the second trimester, after completing 13 weeks of pregnancy, to reduce psychological burden.
There are a few things to keep in mind before and after a pregnant person gets vaccinated.
As with the general adult population, pregnant women who have a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines, or who are experiencing a fever, are undergoing treatment for an acute or severe illness, or have significant cold symptoms are temporarily not advised to get vaccinated. In addition, if the fetus is in an unstable condition, Dr. Xu also recommends that pregnant women consult their obstetrician before deciding whether to get vaccinated.
Many pregnant women worry about vaccine side effects. Dr. Xu Ziyun stated that side effects experienced by pregnant women after vaccination are no different from those experienced by ordinary adults. However, if pregnant women experience vaginal bleeding, amniotic fluid leakage, or abdominal pain after vaccination, it is recommended that they seek medical attention promptly for examination.
Antibodies can be passed to a fetus.
Dr. Xu Zijun pointed out that many studies have shown an increase in antibody levels in foetal umbilical cords after pregnant women received vaccinations, proving that the foetus can acquire antibodies from the mother after she is vaccinated.
