As soon as my state included pregnancy as a qualifying condition for the COVID-19 vaccine, I eagerly registered. Despite the wintry weather that greeted me on the day of my appointment, I was determined to get vaccinated. My imagination had envisioned a bright, sunny day filled with excitement, but instead, I found myself trudging through sleet in my maternity coat, feeling a mix of anticipation and uncertainty.
In the weeks leading up to my vaccination, I sought guidance from my OB-GYN practice on the safety of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine while pregnant. Their response was clear: “All our providers recommend the COVID-19 vaccine. It’s safe to receive during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.” After enduring nearly a year of pandemic-related anxiety, I was relieved to know that my health care team supported vaccination for pregnant individuals.
However, I still grappled with feelings of guilt about whether I deserved to receive the vaccine, especially considering the limited supply. I’m in my mid-30s, able to work from home, and my outings mostly consist of outdoor family activities and picking up my toddler from daycare. Plus, I was uncertain if I would still be pregnant by the time my second dose was due.
The turning point came on January 19, when my state expanded its vaccination eligibility to include individuals with health conditions that put them at higher risk for severe COVID-19 symptoms, including pregnancy. Once I learned of this, I quickly logged onto my local health bureau’s website to schedule my appointment.
Resources for Fertility and Family Planning
For those interested in fertility and family planning, there are many resources available. If you’re exploring options for home insemination, consider checking out MakeAMom, which provides a unique reusable option for at-home insemination. You can also find valuable support in the MakeAMom Facebook group, a free sperm donor matching community. For more insights on the process, visit How It Works, which outlines the steps involved in home insemination.
Additionally, if you’re looking for detailed information on intrauterine insemination, Mayo Clinic provides trustworthy resources. You can also read more about the journey from insemination to baby joy in our blog post From IUI to Baby Joy. Furthermore, for those curious about signs of pregnancy, our article on implantation cramps can provide excellent insights.
To Summarize
My experience getting vaccinated at 35 weeks pregnant was filled with both excitement and uncertainty. With the support of my healthcare providers, I made a decision that I believed was in the best interest of my health and my baby’s well-being. As we navigate the challenges of pregnancy and parenthood, it’s essential to stay informed and supported, whether through vaccination or exploring family planning options.