Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: I am now five weeks pregnant. I am an office clerk, and my work involves constant use of a computer (LCD screen). I have read some information on your website that says one should stay away from computers during the first three months of pregnancy. However, I got pregnant unexpectedly and have not taken any measures yet. I am still working at the computer (sometimes busy, sometimes idle).Do you think I should take some measures immediately? Because the 1-3 months are quite important.
I also want to ask if using an electric heating pad at night will affect the fetus?
Thank you all in advance for your responses.
Doctor's answer:
Hello: Electrical appliances generate some radiation during operation. Based on your situation, it is advisable to avoid contact with computers as much as possible.When using a computer, electromagnetic radiation can exist around it, including X-rays, ultraviolet rays, visible light, infrared rays, and extremely high-frequency, high-frequency, medium-frequency, and extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields, as well as electrostatic fields. However, the intensity of these emissions is very weak and far below the current health standards set by China and international regulations. A decade of tracking studies have shown that the electromagnetic radiation emitted by computers is very small and is safe for the human body, including pregnant women. It is also safe for sperm, eggs, zygotes, embryos, and fetuses. In real life, the occasional cases of miscarriage or the birth of malformed fetuses among computer operators are random occurrences and should not be used to "condemn" computers. To date, foreign experts have not provided scientific evidence that computers affect fetal development. Therefore, he advises expectant fathers and mothers that there is no need to be overly frightened by computers. Normal computer use before and during pregnancy will not affect your little one.
(1) The radiation emitted by computers is far below international standards, posing no threat to adults.
(2) During the first three months of pregnancy, when the fetus is in a sensitive period of cell division and organ differentiation, radiation protection is necessary:
1. Maintain a distance of at least one meter from the computer.
2. Wear protective clothing.
3. Take a shower and change clothes after finishing work.