Lois Larson
Many pregnant women worry about the safety of airport security scanners and whether they could harm their unborn child. The scanners use low-intensity electromagnetic radiation to capture images of the body's internal structure, but the radiation produced is absorbed by the body and do not penetrate the skin. The level of radiation exposure is well below the maximum permissible level set by the Radiation Protection Standard, and is in fact, 10,000 times less than the energy used by mobile phones. As such, it is considered safe for pregnant women to pass through airport security scanners. However, if you are uncomfortable with this, you can always opt for a physical 'pat-down' search instead.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Research suggests that airport scanners are safe for pregnant women and their unborn children. |
| Radiation exposure | Airport scanners emit low-intensity radiation, which is well below the maximum permissible exposure level set by the Radiation Protection Standard. The level of radiation exposure is lower than that from a mobile phone. |
| Alternative options | Pregnant women who are uncomfortable with passing through the scanners can opt for a physical "pat-down" search by a female security officer. |
| Pregnancy considerations | Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before flying, especially if they have health concerns or conditions such as gestational diabetes. |
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What You'll Learn
Airport scanners are safe for pregnant women
Many pregnant women worry about the safety of airport security scanners and the potential harm they could cause to their unborn child. However, according to research, all types of airport scanners are safe for pregnant women and their unborn children. The Radiation Protection Standard stipulates a maximum permissible level of exposure for travellers, including pregnant women and their children.
Airport scanners use advanced technology that has been extensively tested and deemed safe for all passengers. They do not use X-rays to produce an image but instead use millimetre-wave imaging, emitting low-intensity radiation that does not penetrate the skin or harm the foetus. These scanners simply bounce waves off the surface of your skin and do not cause any harm to you or your growing foetus. The level of radiation exposure is well below the stipulated limits and is, in fact, 10,000 times less than the energy emitted by mobile phones.
If you are still concerned about the safety of airport scanners during pregnancy, you can opt for a physical 'pat-down' process instead. This involves a female security officer running her hand along your body, especially your breasts and belly, to check for any hidden weapons. However, it is important to note that a pat-down can take significantly longer than the regular scanning process, and you may need to arrive at the airport earlier.
While it is not necessary to inform airport security personnel that you are pregnant, doing so may be helpful. Communicating your pregnancy can ensure that you receive any additional assistance you may need during the screening process. Additionally, consulting with your healthcare provider before your travel can help address any specific concerns or risks related to your pregnancy.
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Exposure to radiation is minimal
It is understandable that some pregnant women may be concerned about the safety of airport scanners. However, the exposure to radiation during this process is minimal and considered safe for everyone, including pregnant women and their unborn children. The Radiation Protection Standard sets a maximum permissible exposure level for the public, including pregnant mothers and children.
The scanners used at airports are typically advanced screening gadgets that use millimetre radio wave imaging technology. They do not use X-rays to produce an image, and the radiation emitted is absorbed throughout the body. The doses are extremely low, with radiation doses higher near the surface of the body (such as the skin and ribs) and lower for internal organs. The waves bounce off the surface of the skin and do not penetrate the skin or harm the fetus.
Some sources suggest that airport scanners emit 10,000 times less energy than a mobile phone, while others claim that the radiation exposure is equivalent to a few days of background radiation. The intensity of the X-rays is also very low, and they are not directed at the body but rather capture images by detecting the waves that bounce off passengers' bodies.
While airport scanners are generally considered safe for pregnant women, it is important to note that limited information exists on their impact during breastfeeding. If you have concerns, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or airport security personnel. Additionally, you can always opt for a physical "pat-down" search instead of going through the scanner.
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Alternative pat-down searches are available
While airport scanners are generally safe for pregnant women, if you have concerns, you can opt for a physical 'pat-down' process. This alternative is always available to any passenger, including pregnant women, who are uncomfortable with passing through the scanners.
A pat-down is a thorough hand search in a private room, and it takes considerably longer than the regular screening process. During a pat-down, a female security officer will run her hands along your entire body, especially your breasts and belly, to check for any hidden weapons. The officer is required to use the back of their hand to search or perform airport sexual body checks or to check sensitive places, for example, the crotch or upper chest. They may check the outside perimeter of a female passenger’s chest, including above and under their breasts, while conducting a search.
If you've been illegally screened, get legal advice. If you believe you have been subject to an improper pat-down search, the TSA advises individuals to alert a screening supervisor immediately. An individual may also obtain a feedback form at any checkpoint.
TSA Pre-Check is an "expedited screening" program offered by TSA at a growing number of participating airports. While the program does not guarantee avoiding body scans or pat-downs, participants may experience pat-downs less frequently.
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Flying during pregnancy
When it comes to the flight itself, occasional air travel during a healthy pregnancy is almost always safe. However, there are a few precautions you should take. Firstly, discuss any health issues or pregnancy complications with your doctor or midwife before flying. Most airlines allow pregnant women to fly domestically until about 36 weeks into the pregnancy, but the cutoff for international travel may be earlier, so be sure to check with your airline. After 28 weeks, some airlines may request a letter from your doctor or midwife confirming your due date and that you are not at risk of complications.
Long-distance travel (longer than 4 hours) carries a small risk of developing blood clots, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This risk is increased by pregnancy. To reduce the risk of DVT, it is recommended that you drink plenty of fluids without caffeine, move your feet, toes, and legs often, get up and walk around during the flight, and consider wearing compression stockings.
Additionally, tiredness and dizziness are common during pregnancy, so it's important to stay hydrated and eat natural, energy-giving foods like fruit and nuts. Booking an aisle seat can make it easier to get up and stretch your legs during the flight.
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Airport scanners do not use X-rays
There are varying types of airport scanners, but not all of them use X-rays. While some sources state that airport scanners use X-rays, others claim that they do not. It is important to note that airport scanners do not use high-energy X-rays, and even if they do use X-rays, the exposure levels are extremely low.
Millimeter-wave technology, used in the United States, does not employ X-rays and does not contribute to an individual's ionizing radiation dose. Instead, it utilizes low-energy non-ionizing radiation, emitting thousands of times less energy than a cell phone. Millimeter-wave scanners emit extremely low-energy waves, capturing the reflected energy to generate an image. They do not penetrate the skin and merely create a basic outline of the body, making them safe for pregnant women and their unborn children.
Backscatter X-ray scanners, on the other hand, utilize very low-dose X-rays, similar to those used in medical imaging. These scanners are designed to detect objects hidden under clothing or explosive items taped to the skin. While they use X-rays, the doses are exceedingly low, and the potential for harm is considered trivial.
It is worth noting that some sources suggest that airport scanners do not use actual X-rays. For example, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) states on its website that its scanners do not use X-rays and are safe for pregnant individuals. Additionally, some modern millimeter body scanners are said to not use X-rays or expose individuals to ionizing radiation.
In summary, while some airport scanners may use X-rays, the exposure levels are extremely low, and the technology is generally considered safe for all passengers, including pregnant women. Millimeter-wave scanners, in particular, do not use X-rays and are widely used in airport security scans.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, airport scanners are generally safe for pregnant women. The scanners emit low-intensity radiation that does not penetrate the skin or harm the fetus. The Radiation Protection Standard also stipulates a maximum permissible exposure level for travellers, including pregnant women and their unborn children.
If you are concerned about the safety of airport scanners, you can opt for a physical "pat-down" process instead. This involves a female security officer running her hands along your entire body, especially your breasts and belly, to check for any hidden weapons. However, this alternative may take a longer time than the regular screening process.
There are a few risks to consider when flying while pregnant. Firstly, pregnant women are more likely to develop blood clots, and cramped seating conditions on planes can increase this risk. To mitigate this, it is recommended to take periodic standing or stretching breaks to improve blood flow and prevent cramps. Additionally, swelling of the feet and ankles may be more prominent during air travel, so wearing compression socks and tights can help support blood flow and minimise swelling. Lastly, the humidity levels in planes are typically lower than on the ground, which can lead to dehydration, so it is important to stay hydrated during the flight.
