Vaccination is said to be the best way to protect against the known risks of COVID-19. However, it has been observed that many people are reluctant to get vaccinated, especially lactating and pregnant mothers.
Earlier, they were not included in the mass vaccination programme. Therefore, many people have misconceptions or concerns about inoculating a breastfeeding or a pregnant woman.
Now, as per the new Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) guidelines released on July 2, 2021, breastfeeding mothers should get themselves vaccinated against coronavirus without any hesitation.
Besides, a gynecologist and infertility specialist of the Apollo Clinic in Pune, Dr. Archana Salve has addressed these issues faced by women across the nation.
On the occasion of ‘World Breastfeeding Week 2021', it is very important for breastfeeding mothers to get vaccinated with COVID-19, said Dr. Archana Salve.
She further added, “The antibodies that are developed in the mother as a result of the vaccination get passively transferred to the baby while breastfeeding and could be helpful to the child. Recent evidence and studies suggest that after vaccination, antibodies are found in breast milk, which may help protect the baby against COVID-19.”
Moreover, experts have suggested that vaccination is not an indication to discontinue breastfeeding at any point. WHO recommends that mothers should continue to breastfeed after the vaccination as none of the current vaccines in use is excreted into breastmilk.
According to a recent study, IgA (Immunoglobulin A) and IgG (Immunoglobulin G) antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 in breastmilk till six weeks after the vaccination. Besides, it also found neutralising effects in the immune proteins suggesting protection for infants from the COVID-19 disease. Summing up, COVID-19 vaccines offer real benefits for protecting both mother and child.
Talking about pregnant women, based on the recommendations of National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI), vaccination has been approved for pregnant women with the condition that they are informed about the risks and benefits associated with vaccines available in the country. Experts are of the view that the benefits of vaccination to pregnant women outweigh the potential risks.
According to reports, pregnant women and children are at more risk of infecting the virus in the potential third wave.