Which imaging tests are safe during pregnancy?
Imaging during pregnancy is selected by comparing the expected medical benefit with any potential risk. Not every imaging test involves “radiation”: ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) do not use ionizing radiation, while X-rays and computed tomography (CT) do.
Safe care does not mean automatically postponing a necessary test. An undiagnosed illness can sometimes pose a greater risk to mother and fetus than a properly selected examination. The decision should consider gestational age, the body part being examined, urgency, and available alternatives.
Ultrasound—often the first-line examination
Ultrasound uses sound waves rather than X-rays. It is widely used to monitor fetal development and can also assess the abdomen, kidneys, urinary tract, thyroid, and soft tissues. Obstetric ultrasound should be performed for a medical purpose, using appropriate settings and the shortest examination time that provides the needed information.
A prolonged keepsake-only scan is not a substitute for a diagnostic examination. For timing of routine scans, read When should pregnancy ultrasound be performed?
MRI during pregnancy
MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency signals to create detailed images without ionizing radiation. It may be recommended when ultrasound does not provide enough information and the answer may affect care.
Gadolinium contrast is not used routinely during pregnancy. It is considered only when essential and when the expected benefit outweighs potential risk. Tell the imaging team about pregnancy, implants, prior surgery, and other relevant conditions before the examination.
Are X-rays safe?
X-ray imaging uses ionizing radiation, but fetal exposure varies greatly with the body part and technique. In a properly performed dental, chest, or limb X-ray, the uterus is outside the direct beam and fetal exposure is generally very low. A medically necessary X-ray should not be cancelled without discussing the consequences with the treating clinician and radiologist.
The team should use an optimized protocol and the lowest dose that still answers the clinical question. Always tell staff if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
When may CT be necessary?
CT also uses X-rays and, where appropriate, ultrasound or MRI may be preferred. However, in major trauma, suspected pulmonary embolism, an acute neurological emergency, or another time-critical condition, CT may be the fastest and most informative test. Delaying diagnosis can carry a greater risk than the examination itself.
What should be avoided without a clear indication?
- Any ionizing-radiation examination without a medical reason;
- Long, non-diagnostic “keepsake” ultrasound sessions;
- Nuclear medicine procedures without specialist review;
- Contrast when it is unlikely to change diagnosis or treatment.
How can a radiologist help?
A radiologist helps select the appropriate method and protocol, reviews previous imaging, and addresses the specific clinical question. When pregnancy ultrasound is needed, an appointment with radiologist Lana Ezieshvili provides a focused, professional assessment.
Lana Ezieshvili evaluates fetal development, the placenta, amniotic fluid, and blood flow when indicated. If you are unsure which test you need, first contact your treating clinician; to arrange ultrasound, use the form below to book with Lana Ezieshvili.
This article provides general information and cannot replace an individual medical decision. Seek urgent care for severe pain, breathing difficulty, trauma, heavy bleeding, fainting, or sudden deterioration.