Can pregnant women have MRI scans?

There are many types of diseases that can be detected by MRI. Some diseases that cannot be detected by CT, chest X-ray and other examination methods require MRI examination, which is a very important examination method in clinical practice. MRI examinations are performed in a closed space, and some people cannot undergo MRI. So, can pregnant women do MRI examinations? Let’s take a look below.

Professionals have different opinions on this question. Some doctors believe that there is no effect of doing this test within one month of pregnancy and after twenty weeks of pregnancy. However, between one month and twenty weeks, the fetus is in a critical period of development, and doing this test at this time may affect the child's development.

Some doctors believe that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations do not have much impact on people. However, because pregnant women are in a special situation, they should try to avoid this examination in the early stages. The impact will be smaller if this examination is done in the late stages.

Some imaging professionals say that unless there are life-threatening problems during pregnancy, MRI examinations should not be performed. Although it is safe based on current usage, some potential effects on pregnant women cannot be ignored, so try not to do it if possible.

Some imaging experts believe that magnetic resonance imaging will not affect fetal development, but it may cause miscarriage in pregnant women. If the fetus is still not affected after the examination, then the fetus is basically safe.

What should I pay attention to during MRI?

1. Take off all accessories

During the inspection, the strong magnetic field will attract any metal objects and may injure you. So be sure to remove all jewelry, including those around your belly button and feet.

2. Don’t wear makeup

During the examination, the doctor will tell you not to wear any jewelry. Some cosmetics contain metals that react to magnetic fields. Therefore, do not wear any makeup on the day of the examination, including nail polish, antiperspirants, sunscreen, etc. It is best not to use hair care products.

3. You may feel anxious

Some people experience fear or anxiety during the test, similar to a feeling of claustrophobia. So it is best to close your eyes before entering the machine and not open them during the entire process. You might want to imagine something more interesting, or a person or pet you like. Some people need to take anti-anxiety medication.

4. Let your doctor know about your tattoo

During the examination, the pigment in the tattoo can heat up and cause skin irritation or even burns, and covering it up will not help. If you feel any skin irritation during the examination, stop immediately.

5. Inspections may take longer than you expect

The standard inspection process takes only about 15 minutes, but can be stretched to an hour. So you may want to eat something before the test, and be sure to go to the bathroom.