COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in pregnant women: A survey based on the health belief model.

OBJECTIVES: To examine pregnant women's willingness to get the COVID-19 vaccine and the factors influencing this decision.

METHODS: A questionnaire to collect sociodemographic and health status data, knowledge of COVID-19 and vaccines was administered to pregnant women who had visited the hospital for a prenatal check-up. Additionally, specific questions to explore perceptions of disease susceptibility, severity, barriers, benefits, cues for action based on the Health Belief Model, and beliefs in conspiracy theories, as well as trust in the healthcare system and vaccine production, were included.

RESULTS: A high level of knowledge about COVID-19 disease and vaccines (odds ratio [OR] 4.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.46-11.85) and multiparity (OR 3.39, 95% CI 1.42-8.07) are linked to acceptance of the COVID-19 immunization, according to the multivariable regression model. Vaccination is positively correlated with trust in the ability of the Italian health system to provide adequate care (OR 22.04, 95% CI 2.53-191.98) and with the level of recommendation of the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy by family doctors, gynecologists, and family members (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.59-3.00).

CONCLUSIONS: Targeted communication strategies, information campaigns, and addressing any concerns could improve vaccine acceptance and increase vaccination coverage, improving protection for both mothers and their children.