COVID Vaccine in Pregnancy Shows No Developmental Harm

A JAMA Pediatrics analysis of 217 matched pairs found no differences in neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18 to 30 months.

Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Babies

Gouache-painted editorial illustration of a single wooden rattle resting on a cream field, evoking reassurance about infant development after prenatal vaccination. — A JAMA Pediatrics analysis of 217 matched pairs found COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy caused no neurodevelopmental harm to children at 18 to 30 months. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Would you get a COVID-19 vaccine if you were pregnant?

A JAMA Pediatrics analysis found that in utero exposure to COVID-19 vaccines had no effect on children's neurodevelopmental outcomes. Researchers matched 217 women who received the vaccine during or within 30 days before pregnancy with women who did not.

Why it matters

The findings add reassurance for pregnant patients weighing vaccination against concerns about infant development. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists strongly recommends COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy, and infection carries risks including preterm delivery and neonatal death.

The study matched 217 pairs of women on delivery site, delivery date, insurance status, race, and ethnicity. The ASQ-3 measured communication, gross and fine motor skills, problem-solving, and personal-social development.

The players

Brenna L. Hughes, MD

Maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Duke University School of Medicine who led the study on prenatal COVID-19 vaccine exposure and child development.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Professional organization of obstetricians and gynecologists that strongly recommends COVID-19 vaccination for pregnant patients.

The details

Researchers compared children's outcomes on the ASQ-3 screening tool after birth. The analysis was led by Brenna L. Hughes, MD, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Duke University School of Medicine, and was published in JAMA Pediatrics.

JAMA Pediatrics published the analysis on November 5, 2026.
Children were assessed between 18 and 30 months after birth.

Health Landscape

The findings extend the ACOG's existing recommendation of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy with child neurodevelopmental data. They address a question that has shaped vaccine uptake among pregnant patients since the vaccines became available.

For pregnant patients, the study offers evidence that COVID-19 vaccination did not alter children's developmental screening results at 18 to 30 months. Parents and patients should still discuss vaccination timing and risks with their own clinicians.

The takeaway

Pregnant patients considering COVID-19 vaccination can take some reassurance from this evidence on child development. Discussing individual risks and benefits with a clinician remains the best next step.