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FOGSI Guidelines for COVID Vaccination for Females

FOGSI Guidelines for COVID Vaccination for Females

Introduction

Many women still feel anxious about COVID vaccination—especially during periods, pregnancy planning, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. As per FOGSI (Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India), COVID vaccination is safe, strongly recommended, and protective for women. Let me clearly explain what every woman should know, based on scientific evidence and national guidelines.

    Can women take the COVID vaccine during periods?

    Yes, women can safely receive the COVID vaccine on any day of the menstrual cycle, even during menstruation.

    • Menstruation is not a contraindication

    • Vaccine does not affect menstrual flow or cycle safety

    • No need to postpone vaccination due to periods

    Dr. Dimple Doshi’s Tip:
    I reassure my patients that periods and vaccines work independently—there is no harm in taking the vaccine during menstruation.

    Yes, COVID vaccination is safe while trying to conceive or during infertility treatment and does not affect fertility.

    • Vaccine can be taken:

      • While planning pregnancy

      • During ovulation induction

      • During IVF or fertility treatments

    • No evidence that vaccines:

      • Reduce fertility

      • Increase miscarriage risk

    • No need to delay pregnancy plans after vaccination

    No, routine pregnancy testing is not recommended before COVID vaccination.

    • Pregnancy test before vaccination is not required

    • Accidental vaccination in early pregnancy:

      • Does not cause birth defects

      • Does not increase congenital anomalies

    • Termination of pregnancy is NOT advised due to vaccination

    Dr. Dimple Doshi’s Tip:
    Many women discover pregnancy after vaccination—this should never cause panic or guilt.

    Yes, COVID vaccination is safe in pregnancy and protects both mother and baby from severe infection.

    • Pregnant women are at higher risk of severe COVID

    • Vaccination:

      • Reduces hospitalization

      • Reduces ICU admission

      • Protects maternal health

    • Vaccine has no teratogenic effects

    • Prudent approach:

      • If possible, defer vaccination in the first trimester

      • Recommended in second and third trimesters

    Yes, vaccination is advised even after COVID infection, but it should be taken after a waiting period.

    • Vaccine recommended even if:

      • You had COVID earlier

    • Timing:

      • 12 weeks after infection, or

      • 4–8 weeks after recovery

    • Natural immunity is variable; vaccination offers stronger protection

    Yes, pregnant women with co-morbidities benefit even more from COVID vaccination.

    • Conditions include:

      • Diabetes

      • Hypertension

      • Asthma

      • Obesity

    • These women have higher risk of severe COVID

    • Vaccination offers better protection

    • Proper counselling with gynecologist is advised before vaccination

    Dr. Dimple Doshi’s Tip:
    In my clinical practice, women with medical conditions gain the maximum benefit from timely vaccination.

    Yes, breastfeeding women should be vaccinated as per routine schedule and it may benefit the baby.

    • Vaccination is safe during breastfeeding

    • No need to stop breastfeeding

    • Possible added benefit:

      • Antibodies may pass to the baby through breast milk

    • Helps protect newborn indirectly

    COVID vaccination should be deferred only in cases of allergy, active infection, or recent COVID illness.

    Do NOT take vaccine if:

    • Severe allergic reaction to previous vaccine dose
    • Active COVID-19 symptoms

    Defer vaccination if:

    • Diagnosed COVID infection
      Wait 12 weeks from infection or 4–8 weeks from recovery

    Q1. Does COVID vaccine affect periods or fertility?

    Ans. No, there is no scientific evidence linking vaccines to infertility.

    Q2. Can vaccine harm my unborn baby?

    Ans. No. Studies show no increased risk of birth defects.

    Q3. Should pregnant women avoid vaccination?

    Ans. No. Pregnancy increases COVID risk—vaccination is protective.

    Q4. Is vaccine mandatory in breastfeeding?

    Ans. Strongly recommended for maternal and newborn protection.

    Q5. Can I take vaccine if I had COVID earlier?

    Ans. Yes, after the recommended waiting period.

    Conclusion

    As per FOGSI guidelines, COVID vaccination is safe, evidence-based, and strongly recommended for women—including those menstruating, planning pregnancy, pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks, especially in protecting mothers and babies from severe disease.

    At Vardaan Hospital, Goregaon West, Mumbai, I counsel women individually, addressing fears with facts and compassion. If you are unsure about vaccination timing, speak to your gynecologist—informed decisions lead to safer motherhood and healthier families.

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