Abstract
Purpose To examine the safety of magnetic resonance (MR) during pregnancy by evaluating fetal outcomes, contrast agent risks, and the comparative roles of MR, ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT) in prenatal imaging.
Method A literature review was conducted using PubMed and peer-reviewed radiology journals to identify studies evaluating MR safety during pregnancy. The review examined fetal and neonatal outcomes following prenatal MR exposure, trimester-specific imaging considerations, risks associated with gadolinium-based contrast agents, and comparisons among MR, ultrasound, and CT.
Results Three primary themes emerged: (a) noncontrast MR demonstrated a strong safety profile with no consistent association with adverse fetal or neonatal outcomes; (b) MR served as a valuable complementary imaging modality when ultrasound findings were inconclusive, providing superior soft tissue visualization without ionizing radiation; and (c) gadolinium-based contrast agents remained an important safety concern because of placental transfer and uncertain long-term fetal effects.
Discussion The reviewed evidence supports the use of noncontrast MR as a safe and effective imaging modality during pregnancy when additional diagnostic information is required beyond ultrasound. MR enhances diagnostic confidence while avoiding fetal exposure to ionizing radiation. However, careful clinical judgment remains essential when selecting imaging modalities, particularly regarding the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents, which should be reserved for situations in which the anticipated clinical benefit outweighs potential fetal risk.
Conclusion MR plays an important role in prenatal imaging by balancing diagnostic accuracy with patient safety. Continued research evaluating long-term fetal outcomes and refining evidence-based imaging guidelines will further support optimal use of MR during pregnancy.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.52519/00274
Graduation Date
Summer 8-7-2026
Document Type
Poster
Degree Name
Master of Science in Radiologic Science
Program
The School of Health Professions
Faculty Advisor
Kevin R. Clark
Director, Graduate Program
William A. Undie
Dean
Kimberly Hoggatt Krumwiede
Recommended Citation
Valdez, L. Magnetic Resonance in Pregnancy: Safety Considerations, Contrast Risks, and Imaging Modality Alternatives. [poster]. University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; 2026. https://doi.org/10.52519/00274
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
