How Harmful Are Xrays of Your Back During the First Trimester of Pregnancy?

One of the most common concerns among pregnant women is the safety of medications and medical treatments. Especially during the first trimester when the fetus is developing all of its organs, treatments such as back X-rays and X-rays in general--and whether or not they are safe--are cause for stress. While there are conflicting opinions, there is a general consensus by the medical community and the American Pregnancy Association.

Timing of X-rays

The general consensus among the medical community is that if the benefits outweigh the risks, then you should go ahead and have the X-ray. If you can wait till after your first trimester, or even better, after you deliver to have the X-ray, then that would be optimal. X-rays of the torso, including the back, pelvis and stomach have the highest chance of exposing the fetus to radiation, as they are next to the reproductive organs.

Radiation Levels of X-rays

According to the American College of Radiology, most single diagnostic X-rays don't expose the fetus to enough radiation to be dangerous. X-rays such as those taken at a dental office are usually deemed perfectly safe as the radiation level is so low and only directed at the mother's teeth. Radiation exposure is measured in rads. Exposure of 10 rads has shown to contribute to mental retardation and other deformities. However, it is rare for X-rays, especially a single one, to exceed five rads.

Considerations

If you have already had an X-ray, and then found out you were pregnant, talk to your doctor (or oncologist, if it was cancer-related) to estimate how much radiation your fetus was exposed to. Or speak to a genetic counselor to discuss risks and possible testing available to gauge damage.

Prevention/Solution

If you work in a job where there is potential radiation exposure, such as a hospital or dental office, wear a protective apron or ask to be temporarily reassigned.

Warning

As with everything in your pregnancy, discuss all concerns and questions with your doctor. Before having any treatment, from X-rays to massages, inform everyone that are you are pregnant. If there is ever a question of safety with any activity, always err on the side of not doing it.

References

• American Pregnancy Association
• American College of Radiology
• Baby Center