General Guidelines for Covid-19 Vaccine
Government of India has announced that Covid-19 vaccine will now be offered to all those who are more than 18 years of age and shall be available for administration from May 1st 2021.
This means that vaccine for COVID19 is now available for those who are pregnant or are planning for pregnancy, and even those who are planning infertility treatment such as IVF or IUI.
It is generally accepted that COVID vaccination should not be deferred, i.e. should be taken even if you are planning for pregnancy.
If you are planning for IVF treatment, it is best that you take the vaccine before starting treatment, or before starting your injections for ovarian stimulation during the IVF Cycle.
COVID19 vaccine can be taken anytime during stimulation as well but is best avoided within 72 hours of oocyte retrieval or OPU. The reason behind the 72 hrs window is that some sometimes one may get COVID like mild symptoms after vaccination like fever, cough, body ache etc. because of which anesthesia might have to be avoided and therefore oocyte retrieval may get cancelled.
To summarize, COVID 19 vaccine should be taken by those who are planning IVF or any other form of Fertility Treatment and the best time to plan vaccination is before starting injections for ovarian stimulation for IVF or IUI.
Does Covid-19 vaccine cause Infertility?
No, Covid-19 vaccine does not cause infertility.
Does Covid-19 Vaccine impact Sperm and Egg Quality?
There is no evidence to suggest that the Covid19 Vaccine has any impact on quality of egg or sperm. However, the effect of acute viral illness after vaccine administration is yet to be ascertained. Although there is no direct evidence, common sense suggests that it is advisable to postpone treatment temporarily if one is suffering from post vaccine viral symptoms.
Can I take Covid-19 vaccine if I am about to undergo Infertility Treatment?
Yes you can take the vaccine. Preferably before you commence the infertility treatment.
Can I take Covid-19 vaccine if I am about to start IVF or IUI Cycle?
Yes COVID-19 vaccine can and should be taken before starting the IVF cycle.
Best to take the vaccine before starting ovarian stimulation.
Can I take Covid-19 vaccine before Embryo Transfer in IVF Cycle?
It is best to take the vaccine before starting the Frozen Embryo transfer cycle. The effect of taking the vaccine just before Embryo Transfer is unknown and therefore should be avoided.
Can I take Covid-19 vaccine if I am pregnant ?
As per ICMR guideline released on 26th June 2021, Government of India has approved the Covid-19 Vaccine for pregnant women.
We advise you to discuss the risks and benefits of Covid-19 vaccine with your doctor which will help you reach a decision based on your personal circumstances.
Can I get Covid-19 vaccine if I am breast feeding?
Yes, as per the latest notification by Govt of India, Covid vaccine is available for pregnant women.
What are the effects of COVID-19 on pregnancy and breast feeding?
There are no documented issues during first three months due to COVID-19. Incidence of miscarriage or abortion is not higher in those infected with COVID 19.
One significant concern noted during pregnancy is that those females who have had severe illness in last few months of pregnancy, have a higher incidence of caesarean delivery and early delivery.
Breastfeeding is recommended, as transmission is unlikely through breast milk.
GET VACCINATED! THE EFFICIENCY OF THE VACCINE IS MORE THAN THE DEVASTATING EFFECT IT MAY HAVE IF YOU DON’T
To know more about the following questions, please refer to the information leaflet by RCOG
- Risks of Covid-19 Vaccination
- Side Effects of Covid-19 Vaccination
- Is Covid-19 Vaccine is safe during Pregnancy
- If Covid-19 vaccine is safe during breastfeeding
- Can Covid-19 vaccination be taken during any stage of pregnancy?
- Can you plan for a pregnancy immediately after vaccination?
