Semin intervent Radiol 2013; 30(04): 403-407
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1359735
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Pregnancy and the Working Interventional Radiologist

Catherine T. Vu
1   Department of Radiology, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California
,
Deirdre H. Elder
2   Department of Radiation Safety, University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora, Colorado
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
20 November 2013 (online)

Abstract

The prevalence of women radiologists has risen in the past decade, but this rise is not reflected in interventional radiology. Women are grossly underrepresented, and this may be partly due to fear of radiation exposure, particularly during pregnancy. The simple fact is radiation exposure is minimal and the concern regarding the health of the developing fetus is unjustly aggrandized. Fully understanding the risks may help women to choose interventional radiology and practicing women interventionalists to stay productive during their child-bearing years. To date, little has been published to guide women who may become pregnant during their training and career.

 
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