Pregnancy and contrast agents

Contrast agents can make organs and blood vessels clearer on CT, MRI or fluoroscopy. Iodinated contrast, and especially gadolinium, are used during pregnancy only when expected medical benefit outweighs possible risks. A necessary scan for a serious condition must not be delayed dangerously.

• Most people feel nothing unusual after contrast, or briefly feel warmth, a metallic taste or a need to urinate.
• Nausea, headache, itching or a limited rash may occur shortly after administration and should be reported to the radiology team.
• Do not cancel a necessary scan yourself; ask why contrast is needed, what alternatives exist and what delay would mean.
• Before administration, report all previous contrast reactions, kidney and thyroid diseases, medicines, allergies and stage of pregnancy.
• Before the appointment, contact the referring clinician or radiology if pregnancy was not known when requested or if you previously had a severe reaction.
• For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.