Wait, what?! The CDC just changed course on COVID-19 vaccine guidance for pregnant women and kids—and if you’re on the path to parenthood right now, you probably have questions. Big ones.

I’ll be honest: when I first read this CNET headline, my jaw legit dropped. Four years after COVID upended nearly every part of “normal” life (including how we make babies!), the CDC is backtracking on routine shots for two of the most vulnerable groups—healthy children and pregnant folks. Cue the confusion… and a thousand Google searches!

But don’t panic. Let’s break down what’s really happening, what it means for your fertility journey, and how to take control when medical advice keeps shifting. If you’re trying to conceive (TTC), thinking about starting, or just straight-up overwhelmed, keep reading—I promise you’re not alone in this maze.

The CDC’s Curveball: What Changed?

Here’s the quick recap: For years, getting the COVID vaccine was on the “must-do” list for pregnant women and young kids. Now, the CDC says routine COVID shots are off the table for healthy pregnant people and children. Translation? Unless you (or your child) have certain risk factors, that annual booster isn’t recommended like it used to be.

Why the change? The CDC explained that, with lower rates of severe COVID in these groups and high levels of background immunity, the “blanket” recommendation is no longer necessary.

But here’s the thing: - This doesn’t mean COVID is “over.” - Some situations (high-risk, immunocompromised, etc.) still mean vaccines are very much on the table. - It does mean the medical world is acknowledging that risk levels are different—and public health policy is catching up to real life.

Why This Feels Personal (and Complicated!)

If you’re dreaming of a positive pregnancy test, every single headline about vaccines, fertility, and pregnancy can feel like a punch to the gut. I remember how the rules kept shifting in 2020 and 2021. Should I delay TTC? Will the vaccine mess with my cycle? Is it risky not to get it? Add in the social media “advice,” and suddenly you’re spiraling.

Even now, the CDC’s update lands in a time of major uncertainty. If you’re reading this, you’re probably: - Wondering how this impacts YOUR plans to get pregnant - Curious if COVID (or its vaccines) will affect fertility - Tired of conflicting information and ready for something grounded

You’re in good company. So many of us have walked this unsteady, shifting road—and survived to tell the tale.

The Science: What We Know (and What We Still Don’t)

First, deep breath. The research so far has repeatedly shown: - COVID-19 vaccines are safe for people who are pregnant or trying to conceive. - There’s no evidence the vaccine causes infertility in men or women. - The risks of getting sick with COVID during pregnancy (think ICU stays, preterm birth) are still real—but lower now for most healthy people, thanks to broad immunity and milder variants circulating.

But policy is always evolving. The CDC’s reversal mirrors where our country is at: pandemic fatigue is real, and so is the desire to personalize health decisions.

So what’s a hopeful parent to do?

Charting Your Course: Taking Control Amid the Uncertainty

Let’s zoom into what you can control.

1. Talk to Your Doctor—For Real. Even in the TikTok age, nothing beats a real conversation with someone who knows your history. Bring this update up at your next appointment. Ask: - Should I still get the COVID vaccine before TTC? - If I’m pregnant, what’s best for my unique health? - What about other vaccines—any I’m missing?

2. Focus on Holistic Health. Pandemics aside, the basics are still critical. Sleep, nutrition, stress management, and even fun (seriously!).

3. Use Tools That Give You Agency. There’s something so empowering about taking parts of your journey into your own hands. One option some folks are loving right now: at-home insemination kits. Companies like MakeAMom’s insemination solutions let you pursue pregnancy on your own terms—especially if doctor’s offices still make you nervous (or you just prefer privacy). Their kits are discreet, reusable, and designed for a variety of needs (think: low motility sperm, sensitivities, and more). It’s not about dodging medical advice, but about having options when the world keeps shifting. I find that comforting.

4. Stay Connected! The biggest lesson from the past few years? We can’t do this alone. Lean into fertility communities, forums, or just chat with friends who get it. When the headlines feel scary, solidarity can be everything.

So… What’s Next?

We’re living through a wild, unpredictable, and sometimes anxiety-inducing time to build a family. But you do have a say in your own journey. The CDC’s reversal is a sign that things are settling down (a little!), but it’s also a reminder to stay curious, ask questions, and—most importantly—trust yourself.

How are you feeling about the CDC’s new guidance? Have you changed your plans, or does this feel like just another “new normal” to roll with?

Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments. You’re not alone, and your story matters—for everyone navigating the winding road to parenthood in 2025.