Potential Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccine in Pregnant and Lactating
Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
Aim The study was planned to assess the acceptance of the COVID-19
vaccine in pregnant and lactating women and identify the significant
hurdles in vaccine acceptance. Material and Method It was a prospective
observational, cross-sectional study conducted at the Department of
Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Karnataka,
in April 2021. A self-made questionnaire was prepared to gauge the
acceptance and major hurdles of COVID- 19 vaccination among pregnant and
lactating women. Upon receiving the subject’s consent to participate in
the study, they were then required to respond to the questionnaire.
Results: Among 281 participants, 159 (56.6%) women were pregnant, and
122 (43.4%) were lactating. In the study population, 66% (n, 105) of
pregnant women and 68% (n, 83) of lactating women were unwilling to
take the vaccine. The risk of adverse events with COVID-19 vaccination,
chances of pregnancy loss, doctor’s recommendation, and vaccine
convenience were significant factors that impacted the acceptance rate
of COVID-19 vaccination. Conclusion Most women were concerned about the
risk of COVID-19 vaccination, and only 34.0% were ready to take the
vaccine during pregnancy and lactation. Government and health centers
should promote awareness regarding the safety and use of the vaccine to
avoid unfounded fear and encourage joint decision-making in pregnant and
lactating women.