Roberta Aguirre
Airport body scanners are generally considered safe for pregnant women, and they do not produce body images or penetrate the skin. However, some people may still have concerns about the safety of the scanners or feel uncomfortable passing through them. These scanners use low-frequency electromagnetic fields to detect metal and non-metal objects, and the radiation emitted is well below the permissible exposure level. While it is unlikely that these scanners can detect early pregnancies, some women have shared their experiences of scanners identifying anomalies in their pelvic area, leading to further checks by security personnel. Pregnant travellers who wish to avoid scanners can request a physical 'pat-down' search or opt for a hand-held scanning wand.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety for pregnant women | Generally safe due to low-intensity radiation that does not penetrate the skin |
| Alternative options | Physical pat-down search or hand search available upon request |
| Detection of pregnancy | Cannot detect pregnancy, but may show a yellow square in the pelvic area |
| Types of scanners | Metal detectors, backscatter X-ray machines, millimeter wave scanners, cabinet X-ray machines |
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What You'll Learn
Airport scanners are safe for pregnant women
It is understandable for pregnant women to be concerned about the safety of airport scanners. Many sources, including the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), confirm that airport scanners are safe for pregnant women and their fetuses.
Airport scanners use low-intensity radiation that does not penetrate the skin or harm the fetus. Common types of airport scanners include millimeter radio wave scanners and backscatter scanners. Backscatter scanners use a very low-intensity ionizing radiation to see through clothing and spot concealed items, but it does not penetrate the skin. Metal detector scanners use a low-frequency electromagnetic field to scan for metal objects. At the low levels of a metal detector, this exposure is considered safe for everyone, including pregnant women.
If you are uncomfortable exposing yourself to the ultraviolet rays, you could request a physical search by the security personnel. However, if you opt for a physical search, you may be asked to loosen or remove some clothing.
If you have a high-risk pregnancy, it is advised that you consult your doctor before traveling.
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They use low-intensity radiation that does not penetrate the skin
Airport body scanners are generally considered safe for pregnant women. They use low-intensity radiation that does not penetrate the skin. The machines use non-ionizing radiation to scan travelers and detect hidden items. This is the same type and level of electromagnetic field as those generated by electric lines, computers, household appliances, and MRI machines.
Metal detectors, for example, use low-frequency electromagnetic fields to scan for metal objects. Millimeter wave machines, another common type of scanner, use non-ionizing radiofrequency waves that bounce off the body and back to the machine. These machines emit far less energy than a cell phone and do not penetrate the skin.
Backscatter X-ray systems, which are used by the majority of airports, use very low-intensity ionizing radiation to see through clothing and spot concealed items. However, this radiation does not penetrate the skin. The American TSA states that backscatter machines deliver 10,000 times less energy than a cell phone.
While airport scanners are generally considered safe for pregnant women and their fetuses, some people may still have concerns or feel uncomfortable. If this is the case, it is possible to request a physical 'pat-down' search instead of passing through the scanner. This alternative is always available to any passenger, including pregnant women.
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Metal detectors use non-ionizing radiation to scan for hidden items
While metal detectors emit non-ionizing radiation, some airport scanners do use ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation has enough energy to knock electrons out of atoms, and it is used to identify objects hidden by passengers and to create images of what is in luggage. Backscatter scanners, for example, use very low-energy x-rays that are reflected back to the machine itself. The amount of radiation received from a backscatter machine is very low, and the risk of health effects is minimal.
Despite the use of radiation, airport scanners are considered safe for pregnant women to pass through. The scanners emit low-intensity radiation that does not penetrate the skin or harm the fetus. The effects of airport security scanners on pregnancy are not harmful, and they use low-intensity rays that can penetrate clothing but not the skin. The TSA states that their machines do not use actual X-rays, and it is safe for pregnant people to pass through them. However, pregnant individuals can opt for a physical 'pat-down' search instead if they feel uncomfortable.
It is important to note that some sources suggest that radiation exposure beyond the permissible exposure level set by the Radiation Protection Standard may adversely affect the growing fetus. Thus, it is recommended to consult a doctor about the safety and necessary precautions for air travel during pregnancy. Overall, while metal detectors use non-ionizing radiation to scan for hidden items, airport scanners employ a mix of technologies, including non-ionizing and ionizing radiation, and they are generally considered safe for pregnant individuals.
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If concerned, request a physical 'pat-down' search instead
Although airport scanners are considered safe for pregnant women, if you are concerned about the safety of the scanners or feel uncomfortable passing through them, you can request a physical pat-down search. This is an alternative option that is always available to any passenger, including pregnant women.
If you opt for a physical pat-down search, a female security officer will run her hand along your entire body, especially your breasts and belly, to check for any hidden weapons. You may be asked to loosen or remove some clothing.
The majority of airport scanners use a backscatter X-ray system, which uses very low-intensity ionizing radiation to see through clothing and spot concealed items, but it does not penetrate the skin. Metal detectors use non-ionizing radiation to scan for metal objects. Millimeter wave scanners emit far less energy than a cell phone.
If you are worried about the safety of airport scanners while pregnant, you can consult with a gynecologist before planning your flight journey to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
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Consult a doctor if you have a high-risk pregnancy
A high-risk pregnancy means that the mother, fetus, or both are at a higher risk of complications. These complications can arise from pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, lupus, renal disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), and obesity. Other factors that can make a pregnancy high-risk include the mother's age (being over 35 or under 17) and developing medical conditions during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia.
If you have a high-risk pregnancy, it is important to consult your doctor about the safety of air travel and any necessary precautions. They may advise against traveling unless it is an emergency and with their approval. Your doctor may recommend consulting with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, who can help manage your specific health needs and risks. These specialists have additional training in treating medical complications related to pregnancy and assessing and treating fetal problems. They can also help optimise your health before conception to reduce risks during pregnancy, such as managing blood sugar control if you have diabetes.
During your pregnancy, you may require closer monitoring from your obstetrician, more ultrasounds, and careful medication management. If there are signs that the pregnancy is in danger, your healthcare provider may recommend labour induction or a cesarean delivery earlier than planned.
It is important to remember that having a high-risk pregnancy does not mean you or the fetus will definitely experience health problems. Many people with high-risk pregnancies go on to have healthy pregnancies and normal labour and delivery. However, consulting with a doctor and taking necessary precautions can help reduce the possibility and severity of complications.
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Frequently asked questions
Airport scanners are generally considered safe for pregnant women. The scanners emit low-intensity radiation that does not penetrate the skin or harm the fetus.
Airport scanners use both ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. Metal detectors and millimeter wave machines use non-ionizing radiation, while backscatter X-ray machines and cabinet X-ray machines use ionizing radiation.
There is limited evidence to suggest that airport scanners can detect early pregnancies. However, some people have shared anecdotal experiences of airport scanners highlighting their pelvic area, which led to speculation about pregnancy detection.
Yes, if you have any concerns or feel uncomfortable, you can request a physical "pat-down" search or hand search instead of going through the scanner. It is recommended to communicate your pregnancy to receive any necessary assistance during the screening process.
If you have a high-risk pregnancy, it is advised to consult your doctor before air travel. Additionally, staying hydrated and ensuring your comfort during the journey are important considerations.
