If a woman does not know she is pregnant and undergoes a diagnostic medical procedure involving exposure of her abdomen to radiation,then the developing baby may be at risk.Why would the risk of birth defects be highest if the woman received the radiation during weeks 2-8 of her pregnancy?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During weeks 2-8 of pregnancy, the developing baby is in the embryonic stage. This is a critical period of organogenesis when major organs and structures begin to form. Exposure to radiation during this period can cause damage to rapidly dividing cells and increase the risk of birth defects.

If a Woman Does Not Know She Is Pregnant and Undergoes