Overview

There are things you can do to protect your health and the health of your baby.

Experts recommend getting the COVID-19 vaccine if you are pregnant, were recently pregnant, or are breastfeeding.^{footnote 1, footnote 2} Talk to your doctor about getting the vaccine.

If you're pregnant or were recently pregnant

You are at higher risk for getting seriously ill from COVID-19 if you are pregnant or were recently pregnant. And having COVID-19 while pregnant increases your risk of preterm labour and stillbirth. The same steps that can help prevent COVID-19 will also help prevent other viral infections, like colds and influenza (flu).

• Even if you are fully vaccinated, if COVID-19 is spreading in your area:
  • Follow all instructions from your local and provincial health authorities about wearing a mask and physical distancing.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. Scrub for 20 seconds, rinse, and dry. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Stay away from people who seem sick or are coughing or sneezing.
• Be sure to follow all instructions from your local health authorities.

If you're breastfeeding

Talk to your doctor if you're concerned about your baby's risk of infection.

If you have COVID-19 or have symptoms, like a fever or a cough:

• Take extra care to avoid passing the infection to your baby.
  • Wear a mask. Wear it anytime you hold or are near your baby.
  • Wash your hands well before you touch your baby.
• Take precautions if you pump breast milk.
  • Wash your hands well before you touch the pump or bottle.
  • Wear a mask while you pump or express your milk.
  • Clean the pump well when you're finished.

If you have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine

• Talk with your doctor about getting the COVID-19 vaccine. You have the option to get it.
  • The vaccine is safe and effective for almost everyone. Other vaccines, like the flu vaccine, are safely given in pregnancy and after pregnancy. And almost all other current vaccines are safe with breastfeeding. The risk of problems from the COVID-19 vaccine should be far smaller than the risks to you and your baby from having the infection.
• Encourage people close to you to get protected with the vaccine.

Call if you become sick

Call your doctor if you have any symptoms that could be caused by COVID-19, like a fever, a cough, or shortness of breath.