This is a guest post.
Imaging tests play a significant role in the diagnosis of both acute and chronic illnesses. X-ray, ultrasonography, CT, nuclear medicine, and MRI have become helpfully embedded in medical culture. These machines have numerous uses, and pregnant women are frequently likely to be assessed with any of these modalities. However, uncertainty regarding the safety of these modalities for pregnant and lactating women, as well as their babies, frequently leads to the avoidance of helpful diagnostic tests.
Pregnancy is a very crucial part of a woman’s life. This is the phase where they become vulnerable and require a lot of attention, especially care. Pregnancy predisposes a woman into numerous conditions that may be harmful, not only for her, but also for the unborn child. This is the reason why pregnant mothers go into a regular prenatal check up – to monitor the progress of pregnancy and the mother’s health since it can also greatly affect the health of the baby. One of the procedures that the mother may undergo is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
Sounds complex? Nothing to worry about, it’s not as complicated as it sounds, especially when you are there. I’ll tell you everything you need to know about Magnetic Resonance Imaging and its effect on pregnancy.
What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a type of scanning test which is non-invasive and produces detailed three-dimensional anatomical images. It’s a test that takes detailed photos of the inside of the body using strong magnetic fields, radio waves, and a computer.
A contrast chemical called gadolinium will be injected into a vein in the arm for some MRI tests because it can enhance MRI pictures in rare cases. Only if it considerably improves diagnostic performance and is likely to enhance fetal or maternal outcome may it be used as a contrast agent in a pregnant woman. Nevertheless, a radiologist will be consulted before using this to confirm safety.
Why is MRI needed?
Generally, undergoing an MRI would be very helpful for the doctors to identify underlying conditions that cause your health issues. Since it produces a clearer image of the inside of the body, the doctor will be able to diagnose accurately and create the appropriate treatment plan for faster recovery and achievement of optimal health.
Same goes during pregnancy, when the mother is feeling sick there is a need for immediate care. We cannot just put the condition of the mother merely on second-guessing. Pregnant women require specific and accurate findings for their health so that they will also receive the proper care they need. They must receive the best in every intervention because there are 2 lives in line: the mother and the baby.
How Does MRI Affect Pregnancy?
Over the past 30 years, MRI has been used in screening pregnant women and, fortunately, no risk, injuries and any other complications have been reported. Thus, undergoing an MRI during pregnancy will unlikely affect the mother, nor the baby, in a negative way. Data from human studies documented no proven risk to pregnant mother and baby from MRI exam.
But for those who are still uncertain of the safety surrounding MRI, there are available alternatives. They can opt to have an ultrasound, which is the most common test used during pregnancy. Generally, an ultrasound isn’t as specific as an MRI. There are limitations to what the ultrasound can display and your doctor might recommend another scanning test to further investigate. Another option is CT scan, similar to an MRI but it does not use powerful magnetic fields and radio waves. Instead it uses X-ray radiation, so many doctors prefer ultrasound or MRI if you’re pregnant.
Things to keep in mind
In pregnancy, even the smallest discomfort the mother feels should be addressed immediately because she cannot afford to get sick. The mother needs to be healthy since the baby relies on her for food and nutrition.
Becoming anxious during pregnancy is pretty normal because of the many hormonal changes that increase with emotional difficulties. Sometimes, mothers might feel a little paranoid with every test done because one common fear they all have is losing their baby or that something might happen to their baby. This fear only leads to hesitations and the sole reason that can hinder them from receiving the important procedures and care they need.
More than anything, they shouldn’t forget the regular prenatal check up for early pregnancy scan. This will help identify conditions of both the pregnant mother and the unborn child and provide early treatment if needed. They can also book a private MRI scan. It’s normal to worry but not at the expense of your health and the baby.
I didn’t know about this. I don’t think I ever did a MRI while pregnant.
I never did either. It’s something to definitely keep in mind though.
I had a full dental scan with I was newly pregnant with my youngest. I always wonder if his extra teeth are a result of the scan.
I always wonder about scans and such while pregnant too.
I didn’t know you could get an MRI when you’re pregnant. Thank you for this info!
Of course. Glad to help.
I’m claustrophobic so I don’t really love doing an MRI. I still do it because it’s necessary. It’s so important to be educated on the procedure, esp while pregnant.
Right. I don’t really like tight spaces either.
MRI’s are are usually considered safer than other scans so I am not surprised that it is also now safe for use during pregnancy. Great information which I will share with others. Thanks.
Exactly.
I had a lot of questions about scans and x-rays during pregnancy. This post is so informative and really puts my mind at ease.
I’m so glad it could be helpful for you.
Having tests when pregnant can definitely be scary. Thanks for the helpful guide. I’ve never had an MRI but my daughter has.
It sure can be scary. It’s nice to know more about it all.
Pregnancy is hard, and it can be crucial too if any health issues are not addressed properly.
Thank God that now we have so many ways to take care of our pregnant women. Prenatal check-up is really important!
Yes, for sure!
I find this really helpful. In pregnancy, we cannot afford to get sick and simple things make us worry a lot. I will keep these in mind
Exactly. Agreed.
Indeed, second-guessing about our conditions is too risky and we should never take life for granted. Taking MIR is needed.
Agreed.
This is so interesting and I never knew about MRI safety with pregnancy (I’ve also never been pregnant LOL). It is something to keep in mind, thank you.
It really is important to keep in mind for sure.
This is a real thing. People do not take this in consideration like you have laid it out. Well done post.
Right!
This is such a really great and very informative post. I didn’t know about this I’m surely gonna share this to my sister who is pregnant.
I’m glad to hear that. Thanks for sharing.
This is interesting to learn about; I had no idea about the technology behind an MRI or safety for pregnant women.
Right. It’s great to know about it.
Such a great post. I had no idea pregnant women went through MRI scans. I always imagined it was dangerous. Thanks for this article.
Right! It’s so good to know.
Though I didn’t have an MRI when I was pregnant with my son, I found this post to be very informative.
I didn’t with either of my kids either. It’s nice to know more about it though.
My daughter had a rough go with her last child. She knew something was wrong but they kept telling her no. Turns out it was a big yes.
Sorry to hear that. Hope all is well now.
I had MRI before but not while I was pregnant. Thank you for sharing the facts. Good to know!
Of course. I’m glad to know too.
This was excellent information and should be carefully considered before doing an MRI during pregnancy.
Yes, for sure.
Yes scanning is important sometime. I had two scanning with my daughter and son.
Yes, for sure.
Those are some great points to keep in mind and thanks for sharing this informative post. Expecting mothers would be glad to know this.
Of course!
Such great advice! Thanks to an MRI test, doctors found my dad has spinal nerve issues. Thanks for sharing the info 🙂
Of course. I’m glad they were able to help him find that.
I had no idea that pregnant women could have an MRI. I have only had one in. my life a few years ago from a health scare. Than you for the wonderful advice 😉
Of course! I’m so glad to hear it’s okay to have one done while pregnant too.