Pre-Conception CT Scans Linked to Increased Risks of Miscarriage and Birth Defects

A comprehensive population-based study has revealed that women who undergo computed tomography (CT) scans prior to conception may face heightened risks of pregnancy loss and congenital anomalies in their babies. Researchers analyzed data from over 5.1 million recognized pregnancies and nearly 3.5 million live births in Ontario, Canada, spanning from 1992 to 2023. They identified that women exposed to CT radiation within four weeks before conception showed an increased likelihood of spontaneous pregnancy loss, including miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and stillbirth, as well as a higher incidence of congenital anomalies diagnosed during the first year of life.

The study found that the risk of pregnancy loss increased with the number of CT scans, especially those targeting the abdomen, pelvis, or lower spine. Women with one scan had a slightly elevated risk, which grew with multiple scans, particularly when the scans were closer to the estimated conception date. Similarly, the rate of congenital anomalies was higher in women with prior CT exposure. Specifically, the occurrence of congenital abnormalities rose from 62 per 1,000 live births in women without prior CT scans to 105 per 1,000 in those with three or more scans.

These findings highlight the importance of considering alternative imaging methods for women of reproductive age, especially when planning pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to weigh the benefits and risks of CT imaging and to explore less invasive options whenever feasible. The study emphasizes the need for updated guidelines to minimize radiation exposure before conception and improve fetal health outcomes.

Published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, this research underscores the potential reproductive risks associated with pre-conception radiation exposure and calls for increased awareness and precaution in clinical practices. For more details, visit source.