How long after a male chest X-ray can they have children
Release time : 12/13/2024 08:21:55
Chest X-ray is a type of X-ray examination method that primarily checks for abnormalities in the heart, liver, and lungs. It is a common part of physical examinations. However, it has significant radiation exposure and is prohibited as a routine health check by many countries. For couples planning to conceive, chest X-ray during preconception should be taken into consideration.
After a chest radiograph for a male patient, how long should they wait before trying to conceive? It is best to wait for three months after a chest radiograph.
Chest X-rays are a double-edged sword; they can detect abnormalities in the human body but also pose harm to health, and ionizing radiation from X-rays is harmful to the human body.
However, it is regrettable that in many types of physical examinations in our country, chest radiography is included. Although technology has reduced the risks, for couples planning to have children, chest radiography is a matter they must confront. If a man undergoes chest radiography, how long should he wait before trying to conceive? The sperm from spermatogonial cells takes about 90 days to develop and mature. Human sperm can be stored in the cauda epididymis for 42-60 days while maintaining their viability, so sperm can survive in a male's body for approximately 120 days.
In other words, undergoing chest X-rays within three months could potentially affect sperm. Although research suggests that the radiation from chest X-rays is not as significant as imagined, it's still better to wait for three months after the procedure before trying to conceive, aiming to reduce the chances of congenital anomalies in the baby. Additionally, regular check-ups at the hospital are essential for the health of future generations. These precautions cannot be taken lightly.
Does a chest X-ray affect sperm? Since the radiation dose from a chest X-ray is much higher than that for a routine radiography, the harm to the body is naturally greater. So what impact does a chest X-ray have on sperm? Men who are pregnant or have undergone a chest X-ray should be aware of this.
Due to the sensitivity of spermatogonial cells in testicular germinal epithelium to ionizing radiation, exposure to X-rays can result in decreased sperm count and an increased number of abnormal sperm. In extreme cases, it can even lead to atrophy of the testes. Therefore, chest radiography can impact fertility.
X-rays used for chest radiography are a relatively dangerous form of radiation. When a male is exposed to 500-600 Ci, it could result in permanent sterility. It's also important to note that if the body gradually recovers from exposure to a significant amount of radiation, there could still be genetic damage. From this perspective, sperm seem particularly vulnerable, so men should be aware of these issues.
The impact of chest X-rays on a male fetus has been the subject of debate among physicians. Some believe that the impact is minimal, primarily because the X-rays used in chest examinations only affect the quality of sperm, specifically the immature form, and not mature sperm. Furthermore, chest X-rays typically expose the upper body to radiation, with relatively little impact on the lower body.
However, if the prospective parents are genuinely concerned, they can wait for 3 months after their chest X-ray to prepare for childbirth, which should completely alleviate their concerns.
If you have a mammogram and become pregnant, there is no need to worry as the mammograms performed before your last menstrual period are unlikely to affect the fetus. The impact is minimal during the first month of pregnancy. The critical period for the differentiation of fetal organs begins from the second month of pregnancy.
If you are concerned about possible radiation exposure to the fetus, it is advisable to consult with a hospital for examination. Some mothers were informed after their examination that the radiation coefficient from chest X-rays does not exceed the specified limit, so it is not significant and will not harm the fetus.
It is best to consult a physician for specific details.
The medical information provided in this text is for reference only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.
In case of discomfort, it is advised to seek medical attention immediately. The diagnosis and treatment should be based on the medical examination conducted in person.