MRI during pregnancy

[Anonymous]

I have a history of seizures and recently went to a neurologist for a check up after what may have been a mild seizure. I'm 24 weeks pregnant. My doctor ordered an MRI, which she said has no affect on the fetus since the test uses magnetic waves, not radiation. I felt uneasy and consulted by OB, who concurred with my neurologist. Does anyone have any experience with getting an MRI during pregnancy? I'm concerned because, while both doctors say MRIs are harmless, I'm not entirely convinced considering the literature on the subject out there. This is my first child, so that may explain my paranoia, but it would still be nice to hear from others out there who have decided to undergo an MRI while pregnant.
Thanks!

[Anonymous]

I was reluctant to respond to this e-mail until I made sure of the test I did 2 years ago. I was 5 months prego with my first and did an MRI and things went just fine. I hope everything will go just smooth for you.

[Anonymous]

Somehow I would trust the two doctors I have a relationship with or research through medical websites that I did myself, instead of random internet strangers.

[Anonymous]

Why specifically does the doctor want an MRI? I'm a neurologist -- actually, I am an epilepsy specialist, and I would never do an MRI on someone with known epilepsy who had one of his/her regular seizures. Did your doctor check your medication levels? Certain antiepileptic drug levels tend to drop in the first and second trimesters, and extra medication is needed. I don't mean to second guess your doctor, because I don't know the whole story, but unless your doctor is concerned that you had a new type of seizure (suggesting new brain pathology), there may not be a need for an MRI... I follow pregnant women with epilepsy, and if they seize, I just check medication levels and adjust doses. And possibly check an EEG. I agree that MRI is not harmful, but unless it's truly indicated, why do it?

[Anonymous]

20:55, do you have any research/websites or anything you could direct the OP to so she could point to that when she talks to her doctor? I'm imagining telling my doctor, "This doctor... wel,l this person on a parenting website who said she was a doctor... said I should ask you about certain antiepileptic drug levels' tendency to drop in the first and second trimesters..." Not that I don't think your post is very helpful!