It may not be possible to have an X-ray if you are pregnant. This depends on the type of X-ray that you need to have as the levels of radiation exposure vary. Even though the risk to your baby is considered low, it is likely that your GP will advise you to postpone any unnec-essary X-rays until after giving birth.

An X-ray is most commonly used to provide a medical professional with further information on your condition. The most common forms of X-ray are chest or spine X-rays.

Most X-Rays require no special preparation. You may be asked to remove some or all of your clothing and to wear a gown during the examination. You may also be asked to remove jewellery which might interfere with the X-Ray images.

You will be asked to lie on a table or stand against a surface so that the part of your body being imaged is between the X-Ray machine and the imaging plate (similar to a photo-graphic film). You will have to keep still so the image is not blurred.

The Radiologist will analyse the scan and a report will be issued to your referring clinician as soon as possible.