Fetal Radiation Safety
Pregnant women must watch everything that enters their bodies. Sometimes during a pregnancy an x-ray or another test involving radiation might be required. Though medical personal will know about safety measure, expectant mother should also learn about the effects of radiation on her unborn child as well as any safety measures to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
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Lead shielding
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When the abdomen does not require an x-ray, but other parts of the body require film, a lead shield over the abdomen protects the fetus, according to according to the American Society of Radiological Technologists.
Necessity
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Sometimes the risk of a negative reaction to radiation exposure is less than the risk of not having the x-ray at all. The radiologist and obstetrician can help the patient decide the best course of action for necessary abdominal ultrasounds.
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Amount
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In general, fetal radiation exposure should not exceed 5 rad,, which stands for radiation absorbed dose and measures how much radiation matter absorbs. Luckily, most x-rays use less than that, says FamilyDoctor.Org.
Risk
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Radiation slightly increases a fetus's risk of cancer. When exposed early in the first trimester, physical deformities may occur.
Alternatives
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Pregnant women can opt for an ultrasound instead of an x-ray in some situations. Also, during the first trimester, MRI scans represent a safer option.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Hayden
