evidence: The COVID-19 vaccine is very effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalization and death. Because the virus that causes COVID-19 continues to change, vaccines are updated periodically to help fight the disease. It is important to check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 vaccine information website for the latest details. [...] People who are pregnant or were recently pregnant are at a greater risk for severe COVID-19. Having a severe case of COVID-19 while pregnant is linked to a higher risk of preterm birth and stillbirth and might increase the risk of other pregnancy complications. For these reasons, COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for people who are pregnant, intending to become pregnant or were recently pregnant. [...] Yes. COVID-19 vaccines approved by the FDA meet rigorous testing criteria and are safe and effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalization and death. Millions of people have received the vaccines, and the CDC continues to monitor their safety and effectiveness as well as rare adverse events.