Radiological imaging of pregnant women: Frequently asked questions concerning radiation and contrast media

Abstract

Ionizing radiation delivered and contrast media used during diagnostic imaging of pregnant women are major dilemmi for gynecologists and radiologists. As the overall risk of abnormality is negligible at doses received during diagnostic radiological examinations, the radiologic examination can be performed cautiously if the mother is at risk and appropriate indications for an imaging examination exist. Termination of pregnancy is rarely justified because of the risk to the conceptus from a radiological study. In this article, the frequently asked questions concerning radiation dose and its potential risks to the conceptus (embryo or fetus) associated with different radiological imaging modalities were reviewed.