Yes, pregnant can do MRI, but the examination should be 1st quarter to avoid harm to the fetus.
After the first 3 months of gestation, the pregnant woman can do MRI without worrying. However, the use of gadolinium (paramagnetic contrast), should be avoided, as fetal growth restriction was observed in mice exposed to this contrast.
Magnetic resonance imaging should be avoided in the first trimester of pregnancy because exposure of the fetus to radiofrequency waves may increase in tissue temperature.
This elevation in temperature can be very damaging, especially at this stage where the most sensitive tissues, such as the central nervous system and the bones, are in full formation.
An increase of more than 2ºC in the temperature to cause neural tube deformities and craniofacial defects.
However, there are specific situations in which MRI is indicated, even in the first trimester of pregnancy, such as:
- Injuries to the brain or spinal cord of the mother;
- Pregnant with cancer;
- Pregnant women with acute thoracic, abdominal or pelvic diseases who were not diagnosed by ultrasonography;
- Specific cases of fetal anomaly or complex fetal disorder.
There is no specific legislation in Brazil that determines when magnetic resonance imaging is performed during pregnancy, so physicians seek to follow the international consensus not to perform it during the first trimester of pregnancy.
The obstetrician or radiologist may clarify any other questions the pregnant woman may have regarding the examination during.
Read too:
Who uses an orthodontic appliance to do MRI?
How is contrast magnetic resonance imaging done and what are the risks?
Pregnant can do acupuncture?
