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The COVID-19 pandemic began in late 2019 and to date has caused more than 5.2 million deaths around the world. Vaccines continue to be researched as they are released to vulnerable populations, and vaccine education is more important than ever. Vaccines are one of the only tried-and-true paths out of a pandemic, and every member of potentially vulnerable populations needs to have access to the health care they need.
One area of concern and misinformation revolves around COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. Medical expert and renowned pediatrician Dr. Pedram Salimpour wants to eradicate any potential misinformation.
Pregnancy and COVID-19 Vaccines
While much has been learned about COVID-19 throughout its existence, misinformation still exists. While Dr. Pedram Salimpour understands vaccine hesitancy, he believes those who are pregnant should not be hesitant to receive the COVID vaccine. Dr. Pejman Salimpour, who is a prominent businessman and physician in the LA area says, “People who are pregnant are at an increased risk from COVID-19.”
Early on, there was no research on the safety and efficacy of vaccinations during pregnancy; in general, pregnant and breastfeeding people are not included in clinical trials. But clinical trial data now shows that the COVID vaccine is safe during pregnancy. Scholars and physicians like Dr. Pejman Salimpour have discovered that vaccines do not cause COVID-19 infections in pregnant individuals or their babies. Additionally, Dr. Pejman Salimpour looks to research data on the Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines, saying that there are no safety concerns for individuals late in pregnancy, for either themselves or their children.
“COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for people who are pregnant,” says Dr. Pejman Salimpour. “Few public health measures in all of scientific history have provided more safety and security than have vaccines. and this is no exception,” he says.
Key Insights and Takeaways
- No Safety Concerns Found in Animal Studies
- No Recorded Adverse Pregnancy-Related Outcomes
- Vaccination During Pregnancy Can Build Antibodies to Protect the Child ● mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines Reduce Risk of COVID Infection
At this time, Dr. Pedram Salimpour believes that current research suggests safe and effective protection for pregnant individuals who opt to pursue COVID-19 vaccination. Speak with your primary care physician to learn more and to address any potential causes for concern.
Breastfeeding and COVID-19 Vaccines
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a COVID-19 vaccination for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant now, or might become pregnant in the future. At the time of this writing, Dr. Pedram Salimpour points to clinical trials highlighting the efficacy and safety of current vaccines. Additionally, Dr. Pedram Salimpour highlights the importance of receiving a booster shot for breastfeeding individuals. The CDC agrees: In November 2021, it issued a statement recommending a booster shot for all individuals 18 and over.
Dr. Pejman Salimpour says, “COVID-19 vaccines can’t cause COVID-19 infections in anyone, mother or baby.”
Current studies even show that vaccinated mothers can pass antibodies to their children while breastfeeding, helping to protect their children. More data is currently required before a definitive stance can be taken by the medical community.
Key Insights and Takeaways
- Vaccines Are NOT a Safety Concern When Breastfeeding
- Vaccines Can Pass Beneficial Antibodies Through Breast Milk
- Pregnant and Breastfeeding Individuals SHOULD Get Their Booster
About Pedram Salimpour
Dr. Pedram Salimpour is the Chairman, CEO, and co-founder of Pierce Health Solutions, which is focused on the creation and delivery of novel health systems for larger employers throughout North America. Salimpour is also a member of the board of commissioners of Los Angeles Fire & Police Pensions, managing and working with over $25 billion in total assets.
Salimpour is a national speaker with a medical degree from the Boston University School of Medicine. His work has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, London Daily Telegraph, GQ, and Newsweek. Dr. Salimpour has authored several major grant awards through the
National Institutes of Health in addition to his numerous peer-reviewed publications.
