Is Diagnostic X-rays safe during pregnancy?
Typical diagnostic X-rays are not expected to harm a pregnancy. Tell the technologist you're pregnant.
PregnancyGenerally safe
BreastfeedingGenerally safe
EvidenceModerate
What the sources say
MotherToBaby says typical diagnostic X-rays will not increase the chance of miscarriage, and exposures under 50 mSv (5,000 mrem) have not been linked to birth defects; they are not expected to raise the risk of preterm birth or low birth weight. X-rays leave no radiation or radioactivity in the body or milk, so breastfeeding can continue and milk supply isn't affected. CT and nuclear medicine scans differ; discuss those with your clinician.
Also listed as
chest x-ray, diagnostic x-ray, radiograph, x-ray, x-ray while pregnant, x-rays
Sources
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.