How a paediatrician and expectant mother is protecting herself and her baby from COVID-19

WA Country Health Service paediatrician Dr Georgia Werner knows all about the health of little ones. She’s not only a specialist in her field, she’s also a mum with another one on the way.

When it came to making the important decision to get vaccinated while pregnant, Georgia made sure she discussed vaccination with her obstetrician Dr Sara Armitage, first.

Getting a COVID-19 vaccination while you’re pregnant helps reduce the risk of catching the virus and developing complications such as premature delivery. And you’re not only protecting yourself, but your baby too.

The vaccine helps you develop antibodies that are passed on to your unborn baby. These antibodies remain even after your baby is born and help reduce the chance of them catching COVID or developing severe disease.

Georgia made the choice to protect herself and her unborn baby from COVID-19 by getting vaccinated while pregnant.

“Being pregnant increases my risk of becoming seriously ill and needing intensive care if I contract the COVID virus,” Georgia said.

“I felt that having the vaccine was the best way I could protect myself against serious illness, and by protecting myself I can protect my unborn baby, my children, my partner, my patients and my colleagues.”

Over a quarter of a million pregnant women have now been vaccinated against COVID-19 worldwide, with all studies showing it to be very safe for both mother and baby.

Vaccination during pregnancy is an important decision, we encourage you to talk to your GP, midwife or obstetrician.

For further information, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists have frequently asked questions and video resources available for pregnant women and their families.