Answer to Question #913 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Q

I am scheduled for a CT scan of the abdomen with contrast tomorrow. How long should I wait before attempting to conceive? How long does the radiation remain in my body? What effects does radiation have on the female reproductive system? If there is documentation available, please let me know where I can find it.

A

Based on animal experiments, it is suggested that the longer you delay procreation following abdominal x ray the lower the probability of passing harmful mutations on to your child. There are no human data to suggest how long the delay should be, but six months to one year is not unreasonable based on results from animal experiments. Generally, diagnostic x-ray procedures involve very small doses that pose little if any genetic risk. Studies of the survivors of the atomic bombings (many of whom received radiation doses much higher than encountered in diagnostic x-ray studies) indicate no genetic effects in offspring. Nevertheless, you should inform your doctor of your interest in having a child. Depending on the nature of the x-ray examination, it may be possible to modify the study to further minimize radiation dose to the ovaries. Radiation does not remain in your body from CT scans. Once the procedure is finished there is no more radiation. I suggest that you read Eric J. Hall's Radiation and Life. This easy-to-read book provides a good overview of radiation effects. Kenneth L. Mossman Professor and Director Office of Radiation Safety