Vaccines are key to protecting us from serious illnesses. But if you’re planning to start or grow your family, it’s natural to wonder whether vaccines could impact your fertility. With so much information and misinformation online, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction.
Vaccine Safety
Vaccines are thoroughly studied and continually monitored. Multiple studies have found no link between routine vaccines and infertility in men or women. Vaccines reduce the risk of severe illness. Unvaccinated pregnant people and their babies face higher risks of severe illness, complications, and life-threatening infections. Here’s a closer look at both vaccine safety and the potential consequences of remaining unvaccinated:
COVID-19
Multiple studies have shown no harm to fertility, ovarian reserve (the number and quality of eggs in the ovaries), or sperm health. Pregnant people are more likely to experience complications from COVID, like preterm birth and preeclampsia.
MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Experts recommend waiting one month after receiving the MMR before trying to conceive. There is no evidence that the vaccine reduces fertility in men or women.
HPV (human papillomavirus)
Since most receive the HPV vaccine as preteens or teens, questions about its impact on future fertility are common. Extensive studies of thousands of women found no link between the HPV vaccine and infertility or early egg loss.
Influenza (flu)
A study of more than 8,000 women found the flu shot did not affect pregnancy rates. It’s not only safe for people trying to conceive, but it’s also highly recommended during pregnancy to reduce the risk of serious illness. The nasal spray version is not recommended during pregnancy.
Varicella (chicken pox)
Adults who were not vaccinated against chickenpox as a child should get the varicella vaccine before conceiving; an infection during pregnancy can be severe and harm both the mother and fetus.
Hepatitis A & B
These are safe to receive before pregnancy if you’re at high risk (such as healthcare workers, travelers to certain countries, or people with specific health conditions).
The following vaccines are recommended during pregnancy:
- COVID is recommended at any time during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Flu shots are recommended during any trimester if you’re pregnant during flu season (typically October to May).
- Tdap is recommended between 27 and 36 weeks of every pregnancy.
- One dose of the RSV vaccine is recommended between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy (typically September through January, depending on where you live).
Potential Side Effects
Most vaccine side effects, like sore arms, muscle aches, or fatigue, are mild, temporary, and don’t affect fertility. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
Trusted Immunization Sources
When it comes to questions about vaccines and fertility, it’s easy to run into misinformation online. But the best answers come from experts who know the science, like your doctor, OBGYN, or other trusted healthcare professionals. They can help separate myths from facts and give you accurate information about how vaccines protect your health, without affecting your ability to have children.
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