Can I have an X-ray examination during pregnancy?
June 14, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Helma Rothwiller
Dear Doctor,
My name is Jenny Fritsche and I am in the second trimester of my pregnancy. I have been experiencing severe lower back pain for some time now, and my treating physician has advised me to undergo an X-ray examination to determine the cause of the pain. However, I am worried about whether an X-ray examination is safe during pregnancy and whether it could harm my unborn child.
I have already done some research on the internet, but the information is contradictory and confusing. Some sources say that an X-ray examination during pregnancy is safe as long as the abdominal area is shielded, while others warn of potential risks to the unborn child such as radiation exposure and possible developmental abnormalities.
I want to make the best possible decision for my health and that of my child, so I am wondering if there are alternative diagnostic methods that are safer during pregnancy than an X-ray examination. For example, are there ultrasound or MRI examinations that can provide the same information without posing potential risks to my child?
I would greatly appreciate it if you could help me with this decision and provide me with possible solutions and recommendations for my situation. Thank you in advance for your time and support.
Sincerely,
Jenny Fritsche
Dear Mrs. Fritsche,
Thank you for your message and for trusting in my expertise as a radiologist. I understand your concerns and uncertainties regarding undergoing an X-ray examination during your pregnancy. It is completely understandable that you want the best for your health and that of your unborn child.
First and foremost, I want to emphasize that the radiation dose from an X-ray examination is usually very low, and most modern X-ray machines have special protective mechanisms to minimize radiation exposure. However, it is important to avoid any type of radiation exposure during pregnancy, especially in the abdominal area, as it could potentially affect the unborn child.
In your case, with severe lower back pain, there are indeed alternative examination methods that are safer during pregnancy than an X-ray examination. An ultrasound examination is a very safe and commonly used method to gather information about the condition of your spine and the cause of your pain. Ultrasound uses sound waves instead of ionizing radiation and therefore poses no risk to the unborn child.
Another alternative examination method that can be used in some cases is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body and can also be very helpful in diagnosing back problems. However, MRI is usually only performed during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks, as some studies suggest that high magnetic fields during pregnancy could lead to developmental disorders.
I strongly recommend that you speak with your treating physician and decide together which examination method is most suitable for your specific case. Your doctor will take into consideration your individual situation and the potential risks and benefits of each examination method to make an informed decision.
I hope that my information helps you in your decision-making process and I am available at any time to answer any further questions you may have. I wish you all the best for your pregnancy and your health.
Sincerely,
Helma Rothwiller
