Fetal M.R.I (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

Radiology Department

Download the leaflet

Fetal M.R.I (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) (298kB pdf)

Welcome to M.R.I!

You have been referred for a Fetal MRI scan of your unborn baby. We hope the information provided here will help you to understand what will happen on the day of the scan.

An MRI scanner uses a magnetic field rather than X-rays to give us very detailed pictures of the inside of your body.

When you arrive a member of staff will explain what your test will involve. An MRI safety checklist will need to be completed for any person entering the scan room, as MRI scans are not suitable for people with certain metal implants inside them (pacemakers, some surgical implants etc).

You may need to get changed into a hospital gown however if you wear clothing without metal fastenings this may not be necessary.

Please remove all hair clips, you can leave head scarves on. If possible leave your jewellery at home.

A partner/relative can accompany you into the scan room after completing a safety checklist.

You can listen to music during the scan. This helps you to stay relaxed, as it is important you lie very still during your scans. You will wear headphones and possibly ear-plugs as the scanner makes lots of different noises. We will need to put a special cover called a coil over part of your abdomen  to take the scans.

Fetal scanning

You should avoid drinking caffeine on the day of your appointment and empty your bladder before being taken into the scan room.

Wear loose, comfortable and cool clothing as you can become warm during the  scan.

You will go into the scanner feet first. You can lie on your back or side and will be given pads and cushions to get you in the most comfortable position.

The scan takes around 20-40 minutes. Twins will take longer. Your baby may move when they first hear the noise but then will usually settle again as the noise is repetitive.

Is MRI safe?

MRI is a very safe procedure.

There are no known harmful effects to the fetus caused by antenatal MRI

Note

You will not receive the results / report of the scan on the day.

The results will be given to you at a later date by the doctor that referred you for the scan.

This leaflet only gives general information. You must always discuss the individual treatment of your child with the appropriate member of staff. Do not rely on this leaflet alone for information about your child’s treatment.

This information can be made available in other languages and formats if requested.

PIAG 429