Radiological examinations during pregnancy
August 19, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Fanni Raab
Dear Radiologist,
My name is Gerald Schönecker and I am currently in the 14th week of pregnancy. During my last pregnancy, I had some health issues that required me to undergo several radiological examinations. Now I am concerned about whether and which radiological examinations are safe during pregnancy and whether they could harm my unborn child.
I have heard that X-rays and CT scans should be avoided during pregnancy as they can increase the risk of birth defects in the baby. But what about other examinations such as ultrasound or MRI? Are these safe for me and my child? I am also worried that not undergoing an examination could overlook potential health issues for me or my baby.
Can you please provide me with more information on which radiological examinations are recommended during pregnancy and which should be avoided? Are there alternative examination methods that are safer? And are there special precautions or protective measures that should be taken during a radiological examination in pregnancy?
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Gerald Schönecker
Dear Mr. Schönecker,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a radiologist. It is very understandable that as a pregnant woman, you are concerned about the potential effects of radiological examinations on your unborn child. I can assure you that there are indeed certain examination methods that should be avoided during pregnancy to minimize the risk to the baby.
X-rays and CT scans are among the examinations that should be avoided during pregnancy, as they use ionizing radiation which can potentially be harmful to the developing baby. Especially during the first three months of pregnancy, when the fetus's organs are particularly sensitive, it is advisable to avoid these examinations.
In contrast, ultrasound scans and MRI scans are generally safer for pregnant women. Ultrasound uses sound waves and MRI uses magnetic fields, both of which do not emit ionizing radiation and are considered safe for the baby. Ultrasound scans are even routinely performed during pregnancy to monitor the fetus's development.
It is important not to neglect possible health issues for you or your baby. In many cases, alternative examination methods such as ultrasound or MRI can be used to make an accurate diagnosis without the risk of ionizing radiation. Furthermore, special precautions and protective measures can be taken during a radiological examination in pregnancy to further reduce the risk to the baby.
Overall, I recommend consulting with your treating physician to find the best examination method for your specific situation. You should openly discuss your concerns with your doctor so that an appropriate decision can be made.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions.
Sincerely,
Fanni Raab
