Don’t worry, it’s Safe to scan!

January 27, 2023

Pregnancy scan

Fetal scans are a common and important part of pregnancy care, allowing doctors to assess the health and development of the fetus and monitor the pregnancy. However, it is natural for expectant parents to have concerns about the safety of these procedures.

One type of fetal scan is ultrasound, which uses sound waves to produce images of the fetus. Ultrasound is generally considered to be safe, with no known risks to the mother or the fetus. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects to consider. These may include discomfort or pain during the procedure, and in rare cases, the development of a hematoma (a collection of blood outside of a blood vessel) at the site of the ultrasound probe.

Another type of fetal scan is CT (computed tomography), which uses x-rays to produce detailed images of the fetus. CT scans involve exposure to ionizing radiation, which can be harmful in large amounts. However, the amount of radiation used in a fetal CT scan is very low and is not thought to be harmful to the mother or the fetus.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is another type of fetal scan that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the fetus. MRI is generally considered to be safe, with no known risks to the mother or the fetus. However, the procedure can be noisy, and the mother may be asked to lie still for a long period of time, which can be uncomfortable.

In addition to the risks associated with the specific type of scan, there are also risks associated with the administration of any medical procedure. These may include allergic reactions to medications or other substances used during the procedure, and in rare cases, complications such as infection or bleeding.

Overall, fetal scans are generally considered to be safe for both the mother and the fetus. However, it is important to discuss any concerns or questions with a healthcare provider before the procedure. The provider will be able to explain the potential risks and benefits of the procedure and help the expectant parents make an informed decision.

In conclusion, fetal scans are an important tool for assessing the health and development of the fetus and monitoring the pregnancy. While there are potential risks and side effects to consider, fetal scans are generally considered to be safe for both the mother and the fetus. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions with a healthcare provider before the procedure.

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