Covid vaccine not linked to reduced fertility, study says

A Swedish study of 60,000 women aged 18–45 found no statistically significant difference in childbirths or miscarriages between vaccinated and unvaccinated women and concluded mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are unlikely to explain the pandemic drop in births.

Researchers at Linköping University in Sweden analysed health records for 60,000 women aged 18 to 45 in Region Jönköping County to examine whether COVID-19 vaccination affected female fertility. Seventy-five per cent of the cohort had received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose between 2021 and 2024. The team used data on childbirths, vaccinations, miscarriages and deaths and compared outcomes for vaccinated and unvaccinated women. The work was published in the journal Communications Medicine and followed public concern after social media rumours linked vaccination to difficulty conceiving. The researchers note other factors — such as financial strain, health concerns and reduced social interaction during lockdowns — may help explain lower birth numbers seen in some countries during the pandemic. Key findings: - The study cohort included 60,000 women aged 18–45 in Region Jönköping County, Sweden. - About 75% of these women had received one or more COVID-19 vaccine doses between 2021 and 2024. - Comparison of childbirths and miscarriages showed no statistically significant differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated women. - The authors concluded it is highly unlikely that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines caused the observed decrease in childbirths during the pandemic, according to Toomas Timpka of Linköping University. - The article notes earlier evidence, including a 2022 systematic review of 29 studies that found no proof of vaccine-related fertility impairment, and references a 2023 study that reported temporary increases in unexpected vaginal bleeding in some groups after vaccination. Summary: The study adds to existing research that finds no link between COVID-19 vaccination and reduced ability to conceive. Researchers published their analysis after social media rumours and say other social and economic factors may better explain lower birth rates; Undetermined at this time.