Radiation and Pregnancy: Information for Clinicians

• 2025

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This page provides information for doctors about radiation exposure during pregnancy. It describes how most common exposures, like medical exams, are not harmful to a fetus. However, high doses can cause serious health issues such as growth problems and brain damage. The page explains how to estimate the radiation dose a fetus receives and lists potential non-cancer effects at different stages of pregnancy. It also mentions that prenatal exposure may increase cancer risk but is less risky than early childhood exposure based on studies from atomic bomb survivors in Japan.

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Tags

Focus Area: CBRNE

Audiences: Nurses; Physicians

Emergency Management Stage: Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Radiation Exposure; Fetal Development; Pregnancy; Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects; Radiation Injuries; Radiation Effects

Institutions: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

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The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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