LAUSR

Abstract Background Compared to the non-pregnant population, pregnant persons are at increased risk for severe COVID-19 related illness, including higher rates of admission to intensive care and greater mortality. Despite the potential benefits of COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant persons, current guidelines for the use of COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy are limited, and the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines among US pregnant adults is unclear. Methods As part of an ongoing national longitudinal cohort study, 1,372 pregnant and recently postpartum pregnant persons participated in an online baseline survey, including questions on COVID-19 vaccination status and perceptions of COVID-19 vaccines. Preliminary analyses were restricted to 1,041 individuals who were pregnant during vaccine availability (after 14 December 2020). Post-stratification survey weights were applied to ensure results are representative of the general population. Weighted percentages and odds ratios were estimated based on survey responses. Results 39.4% (95% CI 33.7, 45.1%) of respondents received a COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy. Predictors of vaccination included belief that COVID-19 was a serious disease (OR 2.49; 95% CI 1.41, 4.11) and concerns about giving birth during the COVID-19 pandemic (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.10, 3.04). The most common reason for receiving a COVID-19 vaccine was to protect themselves (21.2%) or their baby (39.1%). Among unvaccinated respondents, 14.9% planned to receive a vaccine during their pregnancy and 35.3% after pregnancy, 28.6% had no intention of receiving a vaccine, and the remaining 21.1% were uncertain. Among those who never planned to vaccinate, the most common reason was concern about side effects (57.2%). Percent of pregnant persons receiving at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, by month of delivery (postpartum participants) or estimated month of delivery (pregnant participants). Conclusion Our results indicate that despite the lack of clear recommendations for vaccination during pregnancy, more than one-third of pregnant persons received a COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy. Evaluation of the health effects of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy, including the ability to protect pregnant persons and their infants from infection, is needed. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures