Is It Safe to Do Chest X-Ray During Pregnancy? A Guide for Expectant Mothers

The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “X-ray” during pregnancy is undoubtedly the safety of your unborn child. It’s a concern we address every day with expectant mothers at Semwal Diagnostics, a leading X-ray centre in Dehradun. Let’s go over the following to know whether: Is it safe to do chest x ray during pregnancy or not?

“Is it safe to do a chest x-ray during pregnancy?” If You Were Unaware

Don’t worry. Modern x-ray units use low doses of radiation. The amount of radiation from a single x-ray, in fact, is not likely to harm your baby at all. 

A real concern would only arise in extremely rare situations, where you are unaware of your pregnancy and receive large numbers of abdominal x-rays over a short period. If you have had such exposure before learning you were pregnant, consult your doctor about the chest x ray effect on pregnancy. 

Why is it safe to do chest x-ray during pregnancy?

X-rays of the arms, legs, head, teeth, or chest don’t expose your reproductive organs to the direct X-ray beam. Therefore, there is no risk to your unborn child from these procedures. However radiation exposure to your unborn child may occur from X-ray exams that involve the abdomen or lower torso. Many wonder, is a chest x ray dangerous during pregnancy? 

No single diagnostic x-ray has a radiation dose significant enough to cause adverse effects in a developing embryo or fetus but the possibility of a radiation-induced effect cannot be entirely ruled out. It is always important to let your healthcare provider know you are pregnant if you might need a chest x ray during pregnancy

Understanding the Risks: How Safe is a Chest X-ray During Pregnancy?

Is chest x ray dangerous during pregnancy? That depends on exposure to radiation on the embryo depending on the time of exposure with respect to the date of conception and the amount of absorbed dose. A chest x ray can be harmful in pregnancy if proper precautions are not taken.

Radiation exposure during pregnancy can harm the developing baby, with the effects varying based on the timing and dose. In the first two weeks, a high dose can cause the embryo to die. During the crucial 2-8 week period, it can lead to major birth defects. Later, from 8 to 25 weeks, the primary risks shift to intellectual disabilities and impaired growth. The chest x ray during pregnancy first trimester carries different considerations than a chest x ray during pregnancy second trimester or third trimester.

Medical Benefits vs. Minimal Risks :  So, is it safe to do chest x ray during pregnancy?

Rest assured, a chest X-ray during pregnancy is generally considered safe, provided the X-ray is not directly focused on your abdomen. 

However,  if the X-rays involve the abdomen, pelvis, kidneys, or lower back; It is always advisable to consult your physician prior to undergoing an X-ray examination during pregnancy.

Key Precautions: How We Make it Safe to Do a Chest X-Ray During Pregnancy

Even though X-rays are generally safe, you can take a few precautions by following chest x ray in pregnancy guidelines: 

• Most importantly, tell your physician if you are pregnant or think you might be.

• If the pregnancy x-ray is of the limbs, head, or neck, you will be given a lead apron. This apron covers your belly and doesn’t allow the x-rays to reach your baby. 

• Ask what other scans are available and the benefits and risks of each. Some types of scans, such as ultrasound and MRI, are safer than others.

• Schedule the scan for after the baby is born, if it’s something that can wait.

Our Commitment to Your Care

At Semwal Diagnostics, we understand that your health and the well-being of your baby are your top priorities. Pregnancy-related medical needs can be difficult to manage, but you don’t have to do it alone. We are here to help you as the best Radiology and imaging centre in Dehradun to provide you with the best care and compassion if you need an X-ray during your pregnancy.