A prominent group of obstetricians and gynecologists (OB-GYN) has released vaccine guidelines that differ from those advised by the U.S. government. This immunization schedule targets pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women. It reflects earlier recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) before recent changes implemented under health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and during the Trump administration.
Earlier in the year, the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) withdrew from a CDC vaccine advisory committee due to these shifts, leading to legal challenges. According to Dr. Christopher Zahn, the chief of clinical practice at ACOG, the decision to publicize their own vaccine schedule is intended to offer clear evidence-based guidance and combat the spread of vaccine misinformation.
This new schedule has the endorsement of 13 additional professional and medical organizations. Some groups, like the American Academy of Pediatrics, also introduced vaccine schedules deviating from the CDC’s advice this year.
OB-GYN Recommendations
The OB-GYN group’s schedule recommends four routine vaccines during pregnancy:
- The flu vaccine is advised during any trimester and at any time of year, though early fall is optimal.
- The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended at any trimester and time, with the suggestion to receive it promptly during pregnancy.
- A tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) shot is suggested early between 27 and 36 weeks.
- An RSV vaccine is recommended between 32 and 36 weeks of a first pregnancy, generally between September and January in most U.S. regions. Women vaccinated during a previous pregnancy might skip the shot, but it is recommended for the newborn afterward.
Other vaccines, such as pneumococcal, meningococcal, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B, might be necessary for women with specific risk factors. ACOG recommends consulting with healthcare providers about these.
Three vaccines are recommended before pregnancy or after birth, targeting human papillomavirus, measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox.
Differences Between OB-GYN and CDC Advice
The most notable divergence involves the COVID-19 vaccine. In May, Kennedy stated these vaccines are not recommended for healthy pregnant women and children, a stance questioned by numerous public health authorities. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has not responded to requests for comments.
Vaccine Hesitancy Challenges
Healthcare providers report facing resistance regarding vaccinations. Carol Hayes from the American College of Nurse Midwives noted widespread vaccine hesitancy, pointing out that patients often cite independent research which lacks scientific basis.
Sarah Vaillancourt of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health echoed similar concerns, attributing some confusion to misinformation spread on social media. She deems it helpful for the OB-GYN group to deliver reliable information to patients.
Associated Press’s Health and Science Department receives backing from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. However, AP maintains responsibility for its content.
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