Is the MRI scan safe for me and my baby?
MRI scans are generally considered safe during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) have stated that pregnant people can have an MRI done, during any trimester. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRIs do not use ionizing radiation that could potentially harm the fetus. Instead, they use magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images. There have been no ill effects reported but it is possible that harmful effects could be recognized in the future.
How long is the MRI?
The MRI appointment can last 1-2 hours long. The MRI scan is not one long scan, we do quick 5-minute scan, stop and then we check in to see how you’re doing, do another few minutes, stop-check-in, and so on and so forth.
Will I or my baby need to be sedated for the MRI?
No, you and your baby will not be sedated. We will schedule extra time before the MRI so that you baby is naturally sleeping when we do the MRI scan.
Will I get the results of the assessments?
Because the assessments that we do are being done to answer research questions that are not meant to be clinically useful to you, you will not find out the results of the assessments.
Will I get results from the biological sample analysis?
Because the results are being used to answer research questions that are not meant to be clinically useful to you, you will not find out the results of your or your child’s biological sample results.
Will I get results from the MRI?
Although there will be no results from the MRI scans, meaning it will not be read by a radiologist, you may request a copy of an image from the scan. However, if we suspect any reasons that you may need to visit a doctor, we will let you know.
What does the compensation look like?
You can earn up to $700 over the course of the study. For more details, please refer to the "MOMMA Study Overview" form or reach out to a member of our study team at mommastudy@duke.edu.