A member asked:

And why does xray cause birth defects?

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Damage to DNA: During early development, the x-rays can disrupt the genetic part of the cells in the embryo enough to become incompatible with life or become changed enough to cause anomalies called birth defects.

Answered 7/20/2012

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Dr. Nikolaos Zacharias answered

Specializes in Maternal-Fetal Medicine

DNA damage.: Mutations are sometimes caused by ionizing radiation (x-rays, ct-scans) applied to the maternal abdomen/pelvis during sensitive gestational periods (particularly 4-12 weeks). The actual mechanism is damage to the dna by the radiation beam.

Answered 8/3/2012

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