Health unions say unlocking of Covid restrictions puts pregnant women at risk

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) have voiced their concerns that the upcoming relaxation of Covid restrictions will lead to an increase in infections amongst pregnant women.

The risk of becoming very ill with Covid is increased during the later stages of pregnancy, partly due to the pressure exerted on the lungs by the growing foetus. Although the actual increases remain low, mothers who give birth whilst infected are more likely to need a Caesarean section and have higher rates of stillbirth.

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists have said data suggests that 58 per cent of pregnant women have declined a Covid vaccine.

Whilst they acknowledged that “mixed messages” about the safety of the vaccine at the beginning of the programme had caused confusion, they said they were disappointed there had not been more direct campaigns targeted at pregnant women by NHS England and the government since the vaccination was approved for the group in April.

President of the RCOG, Dr Edward Morris, said “We are concerned that increasing rates of Covid infection will adversely impact pregnant women.

“We know that those who are pregnant with Covid are at an increased risk of becoming severely ill, and the vaccine is the safest and most effective way of protecting women and their babies.”

Chief executive of the RCM, Gill Walton, said “Along with mask wearing, hand washing and social distancing, vaccination is a vital tool in the fight to protect yourself against this virus.

“If you are unsure or worried about this, do speak to your midwife or doctor to get the facts so that you can make an informed decision.

“All the evidence is showing that having the Covid jab is safe during pregnancy, and I do urge you to have the vaccine to protect yourself, your baby and your family.”

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Posted by Tony May, Partner/head of Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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