Effects after prenatal radiation exposure

The SSK dealt with the effects of radiation exposure during pregnancy back in 1984. Now, the SSK has examined whether the recommendations formulated at that time remain valid in light of current scientific data.

• Are there new scientific findings on the influence of radiation exposure during pregnancy on the development of cancer and non-cancer effects such as developmental disorders? 
• Are there any findings on the dose-response relationship for the various effects or indications of a threshold dose (dose below which no effect is expected)? 
• Do the recommendations formulated in 1984 need to be adapted in the light of current scientific knowledge?

• The findings added since 1984 have contributed to a better understanding of the mechanisms that could underlie the observed effects. However, they provide no indication that the previously formulated recommendations need to be changed. 
• It is recommended to maintain the organ-equivalent dose limit for the uterus of 2 mSv per month for persons of childbearing potential who may be occupationally exposed to radiation. 
• Furthermore, the maximum dose of uterus that an occupationally exposed pregnant person may receive from the time of notification of pregnancy until its end should be limited to 1 mSv.
• The implementation of radiodiagnostic or, above all, radiotherapeutic measures during pregnancy requires careful evaluation of benefits and risks. Apart from emergency situations, decisions about such measures should be made in a conversation between the doctor and the pregnant person. Any decision should be prepared by an interdisciplinary team.