“Are there any imaging procedures that are safe for me and my baby?”
I'm pregnant. Are there any imaging procedures that are safe for me and my baby?
4 Answers
FamilyPractitionerRadiologist
Yes — there are imaging procedures that are considered safe during pregnancy, especially when medically necessary. The key is choosing the right type of imaging for your condition and stage of pregnancy.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s safe and when:
Safe Imaging Procedures During Pregnancy:
1. Ultrasound (US)
Safest and most commonly used imaging during pregnancy.
No radiation — uses sound waves.
Used to check baby’s growth, placenta, cervix, and sometimes maternal organs (kidneys, gallbladder, etc.)
2. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Also very safe in pregnancy — no radiation.
Especially helpful for evaluating soft tissues, spine, brain, abdomen, or pelvis in the mother.
MRI without contrast (no gadolinium) is preferred unless absolutely necessary.
Imaging That Uses Radiation (Use with Caution):
X-rays
Can be done safely if needed (especially extremities like arms or teeth).
Shielding the abdomen is essential.
Used only when the benefit outweighs the small risk.
CT Scans
Not the first choice, but may be used in urgent situations (like for appendicitis, trauma, or blood clots).
Uses more radiation, so providers weigh risks carefully.
CT of the chest or head exposes the baby to very little radiation.
Important Tips:
Always tell imaging staff you’re pregnant
Your doctor will choose the lowest-risk method that still gives the info needed
Don’t delay important imaging if it’s needed — the risk of missing a diagnosis is often higher than the imaging risk itself
Here’s a breakdown of what’s safe and when:
Safe Imaging Procedures During Pregnancy:
1. Ultrasound (US)
Safest and most commonly used imaging during pregnancy.
No radiation — uses sound waves.
Used to check baby’s growth, placenta, cervix, and sometimes maternal organs (kidneys, gallbladder, etc.)
2. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Also very safe in pregnancy — no radiation.
Especially helpful for evaluating soft tissues, spine, brain, abdomen, or pelvis in the mother.
MRI without contrast (no gadolinium) is preferred unless absolutely necessary.
Imaging That Uses Radiation (Use with Caution):
X-rays
Can be done safely if needed (especially extremities like arms or teeth).
Shielding the abdomen is essential.
Used only when the benefit outweighs the small risk.
CT Scans
Not the first choice, but may be used in urgent situations (like for appendicitis, trauma, or blood clots).
Uses more radiation, so providers weigh risks carefully.
CT of the chest or head exposes the baby to very little radiation.
Important Tips:
Always tell imaging staff you’re pregnant
Your doctor will choose the lowest-risk method that still gives the info needed
Don’t delay important imaging if it’s needed — the risk of missing a diagnosis is often higher than the imaging risk itself
The only safe imaging during pregnancy is Ultrasound. Thanks!
You did not mention your health care problem or condition, nor that of your baby (pregnant). An ultrasound is safe.
Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are generally safe for pregnant people and their fetuses. These imaging techniques are non-ionizing, meaning they don't involve electromagnetic radiation. Your medical provider can give guidance on what imaging techniques are best for your situation.
