X-ray, Pregnancy, and Breastfeeding
We conclude our radiological series with another important topic: is it safe to have radiographic images taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Let's start with the fact that pregnancy is a special period in a woman's life and involves a restructuring of all the body's systems.
Preparation for pregnancy MUST include a complete oral health check-up, which in turn minimizes the risk of acute toothache during pregnancy and subsequently during maternity leave, thus eliminating unnecessary worries related to visiting the dentist and the danger of x-rays.
Again, it is not recommended to undergo radiographic examinations in the first half of pregnancy and they are permissible in the second half. However, it is recommended to use a radiovisiograph, as its radiation is minimal, as mentioned above.
Remember the most important thing: no dentist will prescribe a radiographic examination for a pregnant woman without special necessity.
Now, let's move on to breastfeeding.
As is known, radiographic radiation during diagnosis does not accumulate in fluids, but passes through them. This also applies to breast milk. Moreover, during the examination, protective measures such as special lead aprons are used, which reflect the rays.
For breastfeeding mothers, for their peace of mind, it is possible to skip one feeding after the x-ray is taken.