Radiation Exposure During Pregnancy: Risks and Safety

Question
We are trying for a baby and I currently work as a cleaner for a cancer treatment center.  The facility uses radiation therapy to treat patients.  They also have an X-ray room.  I was wondering if the amount of radiation that I am exposed to would be harmful if I became pregnant.
Thanks for your time.

Answer
Dear Linzi,

No, it would be very unlikely to be harmful.

In the United States, the average person is exposed to an effective dose equivalent of approximately 3.6 mGy (360 mrad) (whole-body exposure) per year from all sources. It has been recommended that pregnant women have occupational exposure not exceeding 5 mGy (500 mrad) during an entire pregnancy. If you were to have a CT of the abdomen, that is typically 250 mrads. An upper GI series may be 50 to 400 mrads. A plain abdominal film can be 200 to 300 mrads.

So, the amount of lingering, indirect radiation would not be present in any kind of amount that would be likely to be harmful to anyone cleaning in the facility. However, the best resource for you would be to talk to the facility where you work and inquire there. I would suggest you talk to a radiologist or a manager of the facility and also to your OB/GYN before really panicking about the situation.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda