Ask a doctor on the topic of Gynecology

X-ray and pregnancy

August 27, 2012 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Kathrin Hamann

Hello,

I have to undergo an X-ray in 2 weeks as I had foot surgery. They want to X-ray one foot to see if the bones have healed. I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend the day before yesterday. Now my question: If I were to take a pregnancy test on the day of the X-ray appointment, and it came back negative due to early pregnancy, would it still be safe to proceed with the X-ray? Should I mention that there is a slight possibility of pregnancy? There will be a 14-day gap between the intercourse and the X-ray. We are not actively planning for children, but we would be happy if it happened. However, I am concerned about the possible risks of X-ray exposure. Could there be any potential harm? They will probably take 3 images. In the worst-case scenario, they would take 3 images of each foot, as both have undergone surgery (one on the tendon and the other on the bone). I always wear a lead apron!

Thank you for your help!

Dr. med. Kathrin Hamann

Good day,

I understand your concerns. However, I want to reassure you.
Foot x-rays are also possible for pregnant women. A good protection with the lead apron is guaranteed.

It is possible that you are pregnant, but in the first 3 months of pregnancy, the All or Nothing law applies, so either nothing happens or if there were an influence (nutrition, movement/strain), it leads to a termination.

Please don't worry, foot x-rays are safe as long as you wear the lead apron and the foot is far enough away from the body // pelvis.

All the best!

Do you have any questions about this? I am happy to help.

Kind regards,

Dr. K. Hamann