What is the FDA's stance on MRI safety during pregnancy?

The FDA's stance on MRI safety during pregnancy is that it has not been proved safe. This perspective is primarily based on the principle of caution and the lack of conclusive evidence that MRI is unequivocally safe for pregnant individuals. While there have been numerous studies and clinical experiences indicating that MRI does not pose significant risks, especially when considering the absence of ionizing radiation, research specifically assessing long-term outcomes for the fetus in relation to MRI exposure during pregnancy is still limited.

The FDA promotes a careful evaluation of the necessity of MRI in pregnant patients, suggesting that it should only be performed when the benefits outweigh the potential risks. As a result, many practitioners lean towards exercising caution, particularly in the absence of definitive safety data that encompasses all trimesters and diverse types of conditions requiring MRI imaging. Therefore, the stance aligns with option B, aiming to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the developing fetus.