Scans during pregnancy are essential during the entire pregnancy journey as they help in understanding the development and growth of the fetus. However, since scans are associated with harmful radiation, some soon-to-be moms get worried about their baby's health. Some might even refuse to undergo antenatal scans during pregnancy.
However, not all medical imaging exams use radiation, and even if they do, many exams, like MRI, X-rays, and ultrasound, are safe for the growing fetus. This pregnancy guide considers two important scans, CT Scans, and MRI, and explains the essential guidelines to keep in mind.
Additionally, if you're expecting, you might find a pregnancy calculator helpful for tracking your progress and estimating important milestones.
Guidelines for Undergoing CT Scans During Pregnancy
For all the worried soon-to-be moms, CT Scans during pregnancy have not shown any pregnancy risk of radiation exposure to the fetus.
Even though CT Scans use a little more radiation than X-rays, the increase in radiation does not create an additional risk to the baby, except for some areas, abdominal or pelvis. An abdominal CT scan might lead to a slight increase in risk to the baby.
Things to keep in mind:
CT scans of the fetus should be avoided in all trimesters of pregnancy, as it can double the risk of fatal childhood cancer.
CT Scans of body areas other than the abdominal or pelvic, like the head or chest, show no risk of exposure to the fetus.
Understand the risks associated with CT scans of the abdominal and pelvis and then give consent to perform such scans.
MRI Guidelines in Pregnancy
MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, uses strong magnetic waves to produce soft images of organs and joints. It is another imaging technique that is not harmful during pregnancy and is not associated with any pregnancy risk to the baby. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind before undergoing MRI:
Consult the radiology faculty before undergoing an MRI scan during pregnancy if you are in the first trimester. There is no issue undergoing an MRI scan if you have completed the first three months.
Avoid Gadolinium MRI during pregnancy. If gadolinium or any contrast material is essential, give your consent after discussing the risks with the professionals.
Lactating women who were administered iodinated contrast or gadolinium can continue breastfeeding.
Wrapping up,
As a soon-to-be mom, your baby's health is your top priority; however, antenatal scans and CT/MRI scans during pregnancy are crucial as well to understand the baby's development and the cause of the symptoms. Rest assured, the doctors will suggest the best option to ensure that there is no pregnancy risk.
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