The risk of radiation exposure from X-rays during pregnancy has always been public knowledge. It has been associated with malformations, brain defects and other growth retardation of the fetus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
But a new study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons has revealed that there are, in fact, no radiation risks to pregnant women or their fetus, if the X-ray machines and other medical imaging test equipment are used right.
"While care should be taken to protect the fetus from exposure, most diagnostic studies are generally safe, and the radiation doses from these studies are well below thresholds considered risky," said lead study author Dr. Jonas Matzon via Health Day.
The study stated that at least five to eight percent of women require medical imaging while they are pregnant, especially for isolated cases like car accidents that result in physical injuries. Taking X-rays and scans are critical for accurate diagnosis in these types of situations, as the expectant mother could develop complications or die from the traumatic injuries.
But as it is usually the case, injured pregnant women often worry about the effects of X-ray radiation on the baby inside their womb, but the study has highlighted that:
- There are no risks to fetuses whenever the mom undergoes Ultrasound and MRI.
- The radiation exposure from X-rays for checking limbs and spine injury is miniscule and won't affect the fetus.
- CT scans of injuries related to the pelvis present higher radiation does, thus, doctors are advised to reconsider tests using this equipment.
The overall risk is "proportional to the radiation dose and the gestational age of the embryo or fetus," the authors wrote in their study. Matzon further advised the public, especially his colleagues in the medical community, to do proper consultations in these situations. "If a patient requires multiple scans and repeated doses of radiation, a consultation with a qualified medical physicist should be considered to determine estimated fetal dose," he said, according to Health Day.
The Food and Drug Administration also offers additional suggestions for pregnant women who may need to undergo necessary X-ray tests. Advising the doctor of their condition and also indicating if they have had X-rays in the recent past are crucial information that will help prevent any complications. Doctors must also properly explain to their patient why the medical imaging is required.
