What are the risks of having x-rays while pregnant?

I broke my ankle when I was 13 wks pregnant, I had to have surgery. I have had at least 9 pictures (x-rays) taken from 13wks to 21wks and I am worried that this might affect my baby.

Even if you did not have a lead shield over your abdomen during the x-rays, the exposure to your baby was almost nothing. When you got your x-rays, do you remember the light coming off the x-ray machine? The light was shining on your ankle which was on top of the x-ray film/cassette. That light is showing the technologist where the x-ray beam will be directed. Therefore, you can see that your uterus (and your fetus) did not get any exposure. Here is what the experts say:

"Q:

Is a lead apron over the abdomen necessary for x-ray exams on a pregnant individual?

A:

Many state regulations regarding this issue require lead shielding to be used during x-ray procedures when the ovaries or testes are in the direct beam-as long as the shield won't interfere with the procedure. This implies that lead shielding is not required when the ovaries or testes won't be in the useful beam. Many facilities choose to use aprons for most of their procedures anyway simply as prudent practice."

This is taken from the website provided below. The site has many questions and answers answered by qualified medical personnel regarding x-ray exposure and pregnancy.

Sometimes the rays can make the baby abnormal, and cause physical & mental problems. But Don't worry. your doctor absolutelly knows what he/she does.

I had 5 x-rays done while I was pregnant for my second daughter. She is prefectly fine. If that helps you any.

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