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A recent study published online in the journal Pediatrics on March 14th has found no link between COVID-19 vaccination during early pregnancy and an increased risk of major structural birth defects. The research, conducted by Stacey L. Rowe, Ph.D., M.P.H., from the University of San Francisco, and her colleagues, provides reassuring data for pregnant individuals and healthcare providers.
The study analyzed data from a large claims-based cohort of 78,052 pregnancies that resulted in live births. The researchers compared the prevalence of major structural birth defects between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, focusing on vaccinations received within the first 20 weeks of gestation. Specifically, they looked at pregnancies with estimated last menstrual periods between August 15, 2021, and December 24, 2021.
The findings revealed 1,248 major structural birth defects within the cohort: 1,049 among unvaccinated individuals and 199 among those who were vaccinated. This translates to a prevalence of 160.6 per 10,000 live births in the unvaccinated group and 156.4 per 10,000 in the vaccinated group. Crucially, the study found no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of major structural birth defects between the two groups.
Furthermore, the researchers examined potential variations based on vaccine brand (Moderna mRNA-1273 and Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2), insurance provider, prior SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy, and concurrent administration of other maternal vaccines. No significant differences were observed across these variables.
“Our findings align with other comparable studies and provide reassurance to potential vaccinees and vaccine providers considering COVID-19 vaccination early in pregnancy,” the authors concluded.
The study’s authors emphasized the importance of their findings in providing data-driven reassurance to pregnant individuals and their healthcare providers.
Important Note: Two of the study’s authors disclosed ties to pharmaceutical companies, including Moderna and Pfizer.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on the provided study information and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment. Scientific studies provide valuable information, but individual circumstances and risks can vary.
