X-Rays and Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of excitement and extra self-care. When pregnant, taking care of your body is also taking care of your new baby! So it’s a necessary time to pay close attention to all sorts of things, such as eating right, not smoking, not drinking alcohol, and watching what you put in your body.
It is common to hear about X-rays and their risk if performed during pregnancy. But what if you need an X-ray done while pregnant?
We’ll discuss everything you need to know about X-rays and pregnancy.
Why Would X-Rays Impact Pregnancy?
Electrons are released when a negatively charged electrode is heated enough by electricity. This generates energy. This energy produces an X-ray. When the energy is directed to a metal plate, it collides with that and then can produce the X-ray.
It all sounds like a science class, doesn’t it? The energy from this X-ray passes through your body. The soft tissue areas of your body, like your skin, muscles, and organs, don’t absorb the energy of the X-ray. The bones do. That’s why they appear on the image, and the skin doesn’t!
Of course, bones aren’t the only thing that can absorb this energy. Anything solid, like a swallowed penny or a wedding ring, will show on the image.
When all this energy goes through your body, it exposes your energy to a small amount of radiation. It’s considered safe for most people, but while a baby is developing, it’s not considered safe for them to be exposed.
Do All X-Rays Impact Pregnancy?
No. If done correctly, you may get X-rays on parts of your body that do not involve your lower torso. If it’s possible to wait until after your pregnancy (think routine dental x-rays), it’s probably better. However, a lead apron can protect your baby from exposure if you have an injury or need to get an X-ray on another part of your body besides your torso.
There are differing opinions on this, and not all medical professionals agree. There have been studies done that do have conflicting results. Therefore, if it’s possible to wait or use a different imaging option, that is likely the best route.
What If I Already Got an X-Ray Before I Knew I Was Pregnant?
First things first—don’t worry! A single X-ray is not likely to introduce complications. You can share all relevant information with your gynecologist, and they may decide if they want to monitor your pregnancy more closely.
What Are Alternatives to X-Rays?
Depending on what needs to be examined, there can be alternatives. An ultrasound is the most common alternative that has been used widely throughout pregnancies and has not caused harm to a baby.
An MRI is also a safe alternative after the first trimester of pregnancy.
One of these methods may be used instead of an X-ray if possible. However, an X-ray is the only choice to treat you in some cases.
