Abstract

Background/Significance: Vaccines are essential to decrease the harmful effects of illness. The COVID-19 vaccination reduces mortality and hospitalizations from the COVID-19 virus. On August 11, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strengthened its recommendation for all people ages 12 years and older who are pregnant, lactating, or trying to get pregnant to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Despite the recommendation, pregnant women appeared to be vaccine hesitant. This qualitative descriptive study explored this hesitancy. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore pregnant womenâ€™s perceptions regarding COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy and to identify information sources pregnant women used to guide their decision to forgo or receive COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy. Method: A qualitative descriptive study was employed. Researchers used a semi- structured interview guide to conduct interviews. Participants included 41 women living in Salt Lake and Utah Counties, Utah, U.S.A. who had been pregnant any time after the CDC strengthened the recommendation for COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy. Interviews were transcribed and coded separately by members of the research team. Team members came to a consensus regarding themes related to vaccine acceptance and hesitancy, as well as themes regarding information sources pregnant women used to guide their decisions regarding COVID- 19 vaccination. Results: The primary influence on COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy was healthcare provider recommendations. A lack of belief in COVID-19 vaccine safety and efficacy contributed to vaccine hesitancy. Fear of unknown maternal and fetal complications from COVID-19 vaccinations was the primary reason pregnant women chose to forgo a COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy. Fear of adverse side effects from COVID-19 viral infections was a significant reason for COVID-19 vaccine uptake in pregnant women. The CDC was used as an information source for decision-making by the majority of women, and they frequently mentioned conducting their own internet queries, both to obtain and clarify information. Further research is warranted to better understand COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in pregnant women.

Degree

College and Department

Nursing; Nursing

Rights

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