Lois Larson
Many pregnant women worry about the safety of airport security scanners and fear that the radiation waves produced by body scanners may be harmful to their baby. However, airport scanners are considered safe for pregnant women and their babies. The scanners use low-intensity rays that can penetrate clothing but not the skin, and the radiation exposure is within the permissible limit set by the Radiation Protection Standard. If you are still concerned, you can request a physical 'pat-down' search, although this may take longer and require additional evidence, such as a letter from a medical practitioner.
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What You'll Learn
Airport security scanners are safe for pregnant women
It is understandable to be concerned about the safety of airport security scanners when pregnant. However, according to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), all screening equipment at airport security checkpoints is safe for all travellers, including pregnant women. The TSA also states that their machines do not use X-rays to produce an image. Instead, they utilise safe, non-ionizing radio-frequency millimetre wave technology to screen for threats, including weapons and explosives. This technology uses radiofrequency waves, which are also produced by devices such as radios and cell phones.
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) supports this claim, stating that security scanners are considered safe, with no known risks for pregnant women or their fetuses. Additionally, the Radiation Protection Standard sets a maximum permissible exposure level for the public, including pregnant women and children.
While some sources suggest that the radiation from airport scanners may pose a risk to the developing baby, leading to issues such as autism or cancer, these concerns are not supported by research. The emissions from airport security devices are third-party verified and scrutinized, including by the FDA, and the levels of radiation are much lower than those emitted by cell phones.
If you are still concerned about the safety of airport security scanners during pregnancy, you can always request a physical 'pat-down' search instead. However, it is important to note that this option may take significantly longer, as you will need to wait for a female security officer to become available to conduct the search.
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Metal detectors are considered safe for pregnant women
Metal detectors and body scanners at airport security are considered safe for pregnant women. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) states that all screening equipment at airport security checkpoints is safe for all travelers, including pregnant women. The TSA's advanced imaging technology systems use safe, non-ionizing radio-frequency millimeter wave technology to screen for threats, and these waves are similar to those used by cell phones and radio communication devices. The emissions from these devices are third-party verified and scrutinized, including by the FDA, and the levels are much lower than those from a cell phone.
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) also confirms that security scanners are considered safe, with no known risks for pregnant women or their fetuses. The radiation produced by the machines is low intensity and does not penetrate the skin, so it causes no harm to the fetus.
However, some pregnant women may still have concerns or feel uncomfortable passing through the scanners. In these cases, they can request a physical 'pat-down' search from a female security officer. This option may take longer, as someone available to perform the pat-down must be located, and it may be a more thorough process than the standard scanner.
It is important to note that flying is not harmful to pregnant women or their babies. However, it is recommended to discuss any health issues or pregnancy complications with a midwife or doctor before flying, especially after 28 weeks of pregnancy, as some airlines may require a letter confirming the due date and lack of complications.
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You can request a physical 'pat-down' search
While airport security scanners are considered safe for pregnant women, you may still request a physical pat-down search if you feel uncomfortable or have concerns about the safety of the scanners. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) states that all screening equipment at airport security checkpoints is safe for all travelers, including pregnant women, and that their machines undergo a variety of tests to ensure their safety. The TSA also notes that their advanced imaging technology systems do not use X-rays to produce images but instead utilize safe, non-ionizing, radio-frequency millimeter wave technology to screen for threats.
Similarly, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) states that security scanners are considered safe, with no known risks for pregnant women or their fetuses. Nevertheless, if you would prefer to avoid the scanners, you can opt for a physical pat-down search. During a pat-down search, a female security officer will run her hand along your entire body, paying close attention to areas like your breasts and belly, to check for any potential threats.
It is important to note that requesting a physical pat-down search may take significantly longer than the standard scanning procedure. As shared by a pregnant traveler, the process can be time-consuming, especially if the airport is short-staffed or busy. In her experience, she had to wait for a female security officer to become available to perform the pat-down, and the process was very thorough.
While the scanners are generally regarded as safe, it is always a good idea to consult with your doctor or midwife about any concerns or questions you may have regarding airport security procedures during pregnancy. They can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific circumstances.
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Flying is not harmful to you or your baby
It is understandable to be concerned about the potential risks of airport security checks and flying during pregnancy. However, according to experts and researchers, flying is not harmful to you or your baby. Airport security scanners and metal detectors are considered safe for pregnant women and do not pose any known risks to the fetus.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States ensures that the devices used at security checkpoints in airports are carefully evaluated for the safety of all travellers, including pregnant women. Similarly, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) states that security scanners are safe, and there are no known risks associated with their use during pregnancy. These scanners emit low-intensity radiation in the form of radiofrequency or electromagnetic waves, which do not penetrate the skin or harm the fetus.
The security machines at airports use radiofrequency waves, similar to those utilised by radios and cell phones, and the emissions are verified by third-party organisations like the FDA. These waves are significantly lower in intensity compared to the radiation from your cell phone. Additionally, the screening equipment for luggage uses X-rays, but these machines are designed with thick walls and lead curtains to prevent radiation leaks, ensuring that it is safe for pregnant women to stand nearby.
While some pregnant women may still have concerns about radiation exposure, it's important to note that the Earth's atmosphere protects us from the sun's X-rays and gamma rays. Unless your flight is breaking through the Earth's atmosphere and going into space, you and your baby are not at risk from radiation during air travel. So, if you're planning a trip and need to go through airport security, rest assured that it is safe for both you and your baby.
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Take precautions when travelling while pregnant
Pregnant women can travel safely by air, following the same precautions as other passengers. However, there are some additional measures that can be taken to ensure comfort and peace of mind. Firstly, it is important to note that the most common obstetric emergencies occur in the first and third trimesters, so it is advised to avoid travel during these periods unless it is essential and approved by a doctor.
If you are travelling by air, be aware that airport scanners are considered safe for pregnant women by authorities such as the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). These scanners use millimetre-wave imaging or low-intensity rays that can detect objects under clothing but do not produce body images, so they cannot see the baby. The radiation exposure is lower than that of a mobile phone and is considered safe for everyone. However, if you feel uncomfortable, you have the right to refuse the scanner and request a physical 'pat-down' search instead. This involves a female security officer running her hands over your body, including your breasts and belly, to check for any potential threats.
During the flight, it is important to keep yourself comfortable and hydrated. Avoid restrictive clothing, and consider using support stockings to prevent lower extremity edema. Move your lower body periodically, and avoid gas-producing foods and drinks to prevent discomfort. Finally, always wear your seatbelt, positioned low on the hip bones, to protect against unexpected turbulence.
Each airline may have different requirements and restrictions for pregnant travellers, so be sure to check with your specific carrier before booking your travel.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, airport security scanners are considered safe for pregnant women and their fetuses. The security machines at the airport emit non-ionising millimetre-wave technology, which is just radiofrequency waves, and do not emit harmful radiation.
No, the process is the same as for non-pregnant people. You may be asked to remove all personal assets, including wallets, phones, identity cards, jewellery, jackets, belts, shoes, and bulky clothing.
Yes, you can request a physical 'pat-down' search if you feel uncomfortable passing through the scanners. However, this may take longer as you will need to wait for someone to become available to perform the search, and you will need to provide a letter from a medical practitioner indicating a specific requirement.
