Pregnancy Surveillance Program
Occupational radiation exposure for a pregnant employee should be monitored to make sure the total amount of radiation exposure is under the regulatory limit. According to the National Council of Radiation Protection and Measurement (NCRP), the total dose equivalent to the embryo/fetus should not exceed 500 mRem during the length of the pregnancy. It should not exceed 50 mRem in any month during pregnancy.
Pregnancy and Radiation
- The effect of radiation exposure during pregnancy also depends on the gestational age of the fetus. The embryo/fetus is most susceptible to radiation during organogenesis (2 to 7 weeks gestational age) and in the first trimester. The fetus is more resistant to the radiation during the second and third trimester.
- Even though the fetus is more resistant to the radiation during the second and third trimester, a high dose of radiation may result in adverse effects including miscarriage, growth reduction, IQ reduction, and severe mental retardation.
The Pregnancy Surveillance Program at UW Health/UW Madison
This program is voluntary and confidential and your declaration can be revoked at any time.
Contact
Emily Muzzillo
Radiation Safety Officer
emily.eggers@wisc.edu
Phone: 608-514-4179
FAQs
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University of Florida
Gainesville, FL 32611
(352) 392-3261