COVID-19 which is a worldwide pandemic of corona virus disease has changed lot many things and lives around the world. Scientists and various research groups have truly outdone with the pace at which COVID-19 vaccines are being developed. Today we all stand on the precipice of hope for the better and safe tomorrow. With the vaccinations now being made available to all those in the age group 18-45 yrs, several people have been faced with a slew of concerns about the safety of COVID vaccination for breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women.
We are in the midst of the second wave of the pandemic, with another wave expected later in this year. One of the most effective way to prevent this pandemic is to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
India has initially excluded pregnancy and lactating mothers from the corona virus vaccination program citing that no vaccine trials had taken place to ensure their safety post vaccination.
Various research groups in India recently paved a way in bringing lactating mothers under the purview of vaccination. It is said that there is no such advisory and in no situation should a newborn be deprived of breastfeeding. Babies can be fed even after mother getting vaccinated.
The vaccines do not pass through breast milk, but antibodies do – providing hope that breastfed babies would have some level of protection.
As safe is the mother, safe is the baby.
Vaccines approved in India
- Covishield
- Covaxin
- Sputnik V (Available in selected cities)
My Experience
As health systems around the world began to vaccinate eligible adults, lactating people were left to make their decision in the dark.
Being a lactating mom of 10 months old baby, I felt hesitant and had a slew of concerns and questions on the safety of COVID vaccines.
When the government concedes vaccination for lactating mothers, Understandably, the safety of me and my baby is important then I was ready for the jab.
After a long wait and search for the availability of the vaccine, made an appointment.
Before leaving to the center, had a balanced meal. Double masked and maintained social distance at the center.
Finally, now I got vaccinated with Covishield.
After the shot. I waited there at the center for few minutes and left to home. I continued breastfeeding after the vaccination too.
I experienced the after effect of vaccination like pain in the arm (inoculated site), head ache, slight fever. As prescribed, I took paracetamol tablets and had ample amount of rest. These after effects subsided two days post vaccination.
The Takeaway
Taking the COVID vaccine doesn’t make you immune to the virus. Hence please continue to follow all the safety protocols as mandated by the government of India and WHO guidelines.
Ensure to keep up with your baby’s vaccination schedule.
I hope this post will be an encouragement to the breastfeeding mothers.
Sources
- https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/media-resources/science-in-5/episode-41—vaccines-pregnancy-menstruation-lactation-and-fertility
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/pregnancy.html
- https://www.india.com/health/vaccination-for-lactating-women-vaccinated-moms-should-continue-breastfeeding-without-any-break-4683655/