Perspectives on COVID-19 vaccine decision-making in women of reproductive age: A social approach.

Abstract

To summarize the impact of social networks on perspectives about COVID-19 vaccine efficacy and reproductive health safety among women of reproductive age. Women of reproductive age (n = 290) completed a questionnaire assessing their sociodemographic characteristics, medical and gynecological history, social media usage, eligibility to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, and vaccination status. Participants were queried regarding their concerns about the impact of the COVID-19 vaccine on their reproductive health, concerns of people in their social networks including social media and in-person interactions, and their information sources for trusted health information (healthcare provider and social media). Vaccine hesitancy was assessed using a modified form of the adult Vaccine Hesitancy Scale (VHS) total score, lack of confidence, and perceived risk factors, and COVID-19 vaccination status. Using social media as a source of trusted health information (p = 0.013), personal relationships with someone who experienced pregnancy loss (p < 0.031), and worry about vaccine impact on reproductive health (p < 0.001) were associated with decreased vaccine uptake and increased vaccine hesitancy. However, general social media usage was associated with lower vaccine hesitancy; VHS total score, and lack of confidence scores (p = 0.017, p = 0.028). Vaccine hesitancy in women of reproductive age is a complex public health issue that is influenced by in-person and online social networks. Reproductive health concerns and experiences shape COVID-19 vaccine decision-making within social networks. Social media has variable impacts on vaccine decisions and uptake depending on its utilization. Both in-person and online social networks can be targets for public health education initiatives to build trust in the healthcare system and reduce vaccine hesitancy in communities. Vaccine safety education and patient counseling should address reproductive health concerns regarding fertility and pregnancy.