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Answer to Question #1327 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"Category: Pregnancy and Radiation — Exposures not directly to embryo/fetus The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field: Q
My doctor has suggested I have a chest x ray to identify why I
have pain in my upper back, beneath my ribs at the front and in the
middle of my chest. I am awaiting my appointment but have just
discovered I am five weeks pregnant. I am eager to have the x ray done
but am worried about the safety of the baby. Could you please explain
the risks?
A
When you receive a chest x ray at a qualified facility, the exposure of
the x rays is to your chest, not to your embryo. The "scatter" that
might reach the embryo would be extremely small and would not represent
an increased risk for birth defects or miscarriage to your embryo. If
you are healthy and young and have no reproductive problems or family
history of reproductive problems your risk for birth defects is 3% and
for miscarriage, 15%. Neither you nor I can change that risk. Good luck
with your pregnancy.
Robert Brent MD, PhD
Answer posted on 30 October 2001. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.
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