Question I had a head MRI for atypical migraines before I knew I was pregnant. I just found out I was pregnant yesterday approx. 1-3 days before my period should have arrived... I had the MRI scan done about 11 days ago - I would have been somewhere between 24-48 hours post conception but my cycle was atypical because of a miscarriage in May... I remember they asked me on the questionnaire if I was pregnant, of course I marked no because I had no idea. I found a doctor who wrote a book about what to ask your OB when pregnant and he stated that an MRI is of no concern before you knew you were pregnant. Do you know the answer to this?? I'm concerned but trying not to think about it since it was done before I even knew.
AnswerDear Jessica,
For the first week after conception, the fertilized egg isn't even implanted into the uterine wall in many cases. In general, there is no known risk of using MRI in pregnant patients. However, MRI is reserved for use in known pregnant patients only to address very important problems or suspected abnormalities. In any case, MRI is very likely safer for the fetus than imaging with x-rays.
Also there is a fairly common theory amongst health care providers called the "all-or-nothing phenomenon". Essentially this refers to a window of time in the first 2-3 weeks after conception when there is none of the crucial fetal development going on. During this window, if the new fetus is exposed to anything which will prove to be "defective", the strong likelihood is that it will spontaneously abort. However, in most cases, this window allows for great latitude. My personal suspicion is it was a nature-made, divine protection since most women will not know they are pregnant for at least 2-3 weeks after conception has occurred.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
