COVID-19 Vaccines and a Future with Fewer Preeclampsia Cases
Preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and organ strain, affects roughly 3-8% of pregnancies and can have devastating consequences. For decades, understanding and preventing this condition has remained a significant challenge for medical professionals. However, recent research suggests a surprising ally in the fight against preeclampsia: COVID-19 vaccination.
The Link Between COVID-19 and Preeclampsia
Early in the pandemic, doctors observed a concerning trend – pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2 were more likely to develop preeclampsia. Both conditions share common pathways involving inflammation and damage to blood vessels. The viral infection can disrupt placental function and blood flow, placing significant stress on the mother’s body.
INTERCOVID Consortium’s Groundbreaking Study
A multinational study led by the INTERCOVID Consortium, analyzing data from over 6,500 pregnancies across 18 countries, has revealed a compelling connection. The research, published in eClinicalMedicine, demonstrates that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy, particularly with a booster dose, significantly reduces the risk of preeclampsia.
The study found that contracting COVID-19 during pregnancy increased the risk of preeclampsia by 45%, while this risk jumped to 78% among unvaccinated women. Booster vaccinations were linked to a 33% reduction in the odds of preeclampsia compared to unvaccinated women. This protective effect was even observed in women who never contracted COVID-19, suggesting a broader immunological benefit.
Beyond Preeclampsia: Improved Maternal and Newborn Outcomes
The benefits of vaccination extend beyond preeclampsia prevention. Booster vaccination was associated with a 32% lower risk of severe maternal complications and a 29% lower risk of severe newborn complications or death. These findings highlight the potential for COVID-19 vaccination to improve overall pregnancy outcomes.
How Vaccination May Offer Protection
While the exact mechanisms are still being investigated, researchers believe COVID-19 vaccines may protect against preeclampsia through several pathways. Vaccines are known to protect against severe COVID-19 illness, which itself is a risk factor for preeclampsia. Vaccines can modulate the immune system, potentially reducing harmful inflammation and stabilizing blood vessels.
Future Research and Potential Implications
The INTERCOVID study was observational, meaning it cannot definitively prove that vaccination directly prevents preeclampsia. However, it provides strong evidence to support the importance of strengthening COVID vaccination programs during pregnancy, with an emphasis on booster doses and equitable access to vaccines worldwide.
Future research will focus on unraveling the complex interplay between vaccination, the immune system, and placental function. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to the development of new strategies for preeclampsia prevention and treatment.
The Potential for Broader Immunological Approaches
This research opens the door to exploring whether other vaccines or immunotherapies could be used to prevent preeclampsia. If vaccination can influence the pathways involved in preeclampsia development, it suggests a broader role for immunology in pregnancy health.
Pro Tip:
Pregnant individuals should discuss COVID-19 vaccination with their healthcare provider to make informed decisions based on their individual risk factors and medical history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe during pregnancy?
A: Yes, leading obstetric organizations recommend COVID-19 vaccination for pregnant individuals.
Q: Does vaccination only protect against preeclampsia if I receive COVID-19?
A: No, the study suggests vaccination may offer protection even in individuals who never contract COVID-19.
Q: Are booster doses more effective than the initial vaccine series?
A: Yes, the study found that booster doses were associated with a more significant reduction in preeclampsia risk.
Q: What if I have existing health conditions like diabetes or hypertension?
A: The study showed that vaccination was particularly beneficial for women with pre-existing health conditions, reducing their risk of preeclampsia by 42%.
Did you know? Preeclampsia can sometimes develop after delivery, known as postpartum preeclampsia. Continued monitoring is crucial even after childbirth.
This article is a rework of a press release issued by Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Material has been edited for length and content.
Reference: Cavoretto PI, Villar J, Farina A, et al. COVID-19 vaccination status during pregnancy and preeclampsia risk: the pandemic-era cohort of the INTERCOVID consortium. eClinicalMedicine. 2026:103785. Doi: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2026.103785
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