Medical Imaging During Pregnancy: Safety Considerations and What to Know
·4 min read
Many patients ask: “Is imaging safe during pregnancy?” The answer depends on the type of scan and the clinical need.
Diagnostic imaging during pregnancy is carefully considered to balance potential risks and benefits. Your doctor and radiology team will consider the safest and most appropriate imaging option based on your symptoms, pregnancy stage and clinical urgency.
In this article: Learn how ultrasound, MRI, X-ray and CT may be considered during pregnancy, and why imaging decisions are based on clinical need, safety protocols and medical referral.
Ultrasound and MRI in Pregnancy
Ultrasound in Pregnancy
Ultrasound is a medical imaging test that uses sound waves and does not involve ionising radiation. It is commonly used during pregnancy to confirm pregnancy, monitor fetal development, and investigate pain or bleeding.
MRI in Pregnancy
MRI is a medical imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves rather than ionising radiation. It may be recommended if further anatomical detail is required, based on clinical necessity and specialist guidance.
Ultrasound may also be used for non-obstetric concerns during pregnancy, such as gallbladder or kidney issues. MRI may be considered when ultrasound does not provide enough detail or when your referring practitioner requires further information.
X-ray or CT in Pregnancy
X-rays and CT scans use ionising radiation. However, if imaging is clinically necessary, for example in trauma, shielding and dose minimisation techniques may be used.
Your doctor and radiology team will assess:
- The urgency of imaging
- Whether ultrasound or MRI may be suitable alternatives
- Gestational age
- Potential exposure levels
- The risk of delaying diagnosis or treatment
Radiation Risk in Perspective
Modern imaging equipment uses the lowest radiation dose reasonably achievable. In many cases, the risk from not diagnosing a serious condition may outweigh the small theoretical radiation risk.
Imaging decisions during pregnancy should always be made with your referring doctor, radiologist and clinical care team.
Important:
Always inform staff if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant before your appointment.
Informing Your Radiology Team
Always inform staff if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant before your appointment. This allows the radiology team to review the referral, confirm the most appropriate imaging pathway and apply relevant safety protocols.
United Radiology Melbourne follows established safety protocols and works closely with referring practitioners to ensure appropriate imaging decisions.
Related Information
For patients and referring practitioners, the following pages provide more information about ultrasound services and how to contact United Radiology.
Learn more about general ultrasound, including how ultrasound may be used for abdominal, pelvic, soft tissue and other clinical concerns.
Contact Our TeamContact our team to ask about appointment information, referral requirements and available imaging services across United Radiology clinics.
Pregnancy Imaging Across Melbourne
United Radiology provides medically referred diagnostic imaging services across multiple Melbourne clinic locations. Patients should check the relevant clinic page or contact the clinic directly to confirm available services, pregnancy-related appointment requirements and referral information.
View our Melbourne clinic locations
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ultrasound safe during pregnancy?
Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation and is commonly used during pregnancy. It should still be performed when clinically appropriate and following medical referral.
Can I have an MRI during pregnancy?
MRI does not use ionising radiation and may be recommended during pregnancy when further anatomical detail is required. Decisions are made based on clinical need and specialist guidance.
Are X-rays or CT scans ever used during pregnancy?
X-rays and CT scans use ionising radiation, but they may still be used when clinically necessary, such as in trauma or urgent medical situations. Dose minimisation and shielding may be considered where appropriate.
What should I tell staff before my scan?
Tell the radiology team if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant before your appointment. This helps staff review the referral and apply appropriate safety protocols.
Need Pregnancy-Safe Imaging Advice?
United Radiology provides medically referred diagnostic imaging services across Melbourne, with imaging decisions guided by clinical need and established safety protocols.