Radiation exposure during pregnancy

Background. Exposure to radiation during pregnancy is often associated with great uncertainty for the affected patient. The risks associated with radiation exposure to the child are highly dependent on the type of exposure and the region of interest investigated. Objective. The risks of radiation exposure for a pregnant patient are presented and options for dealing with pregnant women who have been subjected to radiation exposure are shown. Material and methods. This study is based on a selective literature review and an analysis of the reports and recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection, the UN Scientific Committee reports, the German Commission on Radiological Protection, the German Society of Medical Physics and the German Roentgen Society. Results and discussion. In projection radiography the exposure that occurs with correct application presents a low risk to the unborn child. Using computed tomography, interventional radiography, nuclear medicine diagnostics and therapy and radiotherapy applications, dose levels in some cases may be associated with certain risks and therefore need to be considered more carefully. The risks are presented and a procedure for assessing the radiation exposure is given. The necessary considerations for a possible abortion are discussed.