Canadian researchers studying over 5.1 million pregnancies found that women who underwent CT scans before conception face higher risks of pregnancy loss and birth defects.
The risk increases with the number of scans performed, with three or more CT scans raising pregnancy loss odds by 19 percent compared to no previous scans.
Dr. Camille Simard from Jewish General Hospital in Montreal emphasized that while the risk increase is small, it shouldn’t prevent necessary CT imaging The study revealed that scans involving areas closer to the ovaries, such as abdomen and pelvis, showed slightly higher pregnancy loss rates.
Medical experts recommend offering alternatives like ultrasound and MRI to young women when possible.
These findings highlight the importance of following appropriate criteria when deciding between imaging methods and communicating clearly with patients about why CT is the best option for their specific case.
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