Health professionals have issued a strong warning to pregnant women, urging them to avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation during pregnancy. They caution that excessive medical imaging—such as repeated CT scans and X-rays—could significantly increase the risk of congenital hearing loss in their babies.

Although diagnostic imaging remains an essential tool for medical care, the experts emphasize that the timing and frequency of exposure play a critical role in determining potential harm to the developing fetus, particularly to the auditory system.

Understanding Hearing Loss in Newborns

According to medical professionals, hearing loss in infants typically falls into two major categories: congenital (present at birth) and acquired (developed after birth). While numerous factors can cause congenital hearing loss, one emerging concern involves radiation exposure during pregnancy, especially in its early and most sensitive stages.

Professor Titus Ibekwe, Provost of the College of Health Sciences at the University of Abuja and a specialist in Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), stated that radiation should be treated with extreme caution during pregnancy. He made it clear that although medical scans like X-rays or CT scans are sometimes medically necessary, their overuse or misuse during pregnancy could impair fetal development and lead to conditions like congenital hearing loss.

“There are several causes of congenital hearing loss, and one of them is excessive radiation,” Ibekwe explained. “Pregnant women must avoid unnecessary exposure. That’s not to say that every CT scan or X-ray is harmful, but repeated and unjustified scans could increase the risk.”

Radiation Isn’t the Only Threat

Beyond radiation, the professor also warned of other harmful exposures that can damage the auditory system of an unborn child. These include chemical toxins, particularly heavy metals like mercury, which can pass through the placenta and interfere with fetal development.

He also highlighted the dangers of prolonged labour during childbirth. If the baby remains in the birth canal for an extended period, there is a risk of asphyxia, or insufficient oxygen supply. This oxygen deprivation could damage the brain and cochlea, the organ responsible for hearing.

“Oxygen is essential for the development of brain cells,” he stated. “If the baby lacks oxygen during delivery, this could result in damage to vital organs responsible for interpreting sound and other sensory functions.”

Common Infections Also Pose Risk

Professor Ibekwe further noted that infections during pregnancy also contribute significantly to congenital hearing loss. Conditions such as rubella, syphilis, HIV, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, and varicella zoster can all cross the placental barrier and damage the developing organs of the unborn child.

“These infections can affect more than just hearing,” he explained. “They can impair overall brain development, vision, and other critical systems. That’s why antenatal care and maternal vaccinations are absolutely essential.”

Neonatal Jaundice: A Silent Danger

Another condition that the professor flagged as potentially harmful is neonatal jaundice, a common occurrence in newborns. Although often considered benign, when jaundice becomes severe or prolonged, it can lead to complications such as kernicterus, a type of brain damage that can also affect hearing.

“If not managed early, severe jaundice can be toxic to the auditory nerve,” Ibekwe warned. “This is yet another reason parents must follow up on every abnormality noticed shortly after delivery.”

The High Cost of Hearing Loss Treatment

While early detection and intervention can help manage hearing impairments, treatment often comes at a high cost. Professor Samuel Adoga, a Consultant Ear, Nose, and Throat Surgeon at the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital in Otukpo, emphasized that many families cannot afford effective treatments such as hearing aids or cochlear implants.

“The cost of a cochlear implant alone is around $15,000 per ear. In some cases, it could go up to $27,000 for both,” he revealed. “That doesn’t even include the necessary tests like CT scans and MRIs that come before surgery.”

Given Nigeria’s economic challenges and low average income, he added that the vast majority of families simply cannot access these life-changing devices.

Only Specialists Should Handle Hearing Issues

Professor Adoga also highlighted the importance of consulting qualified ENT specialists when dealing with any ear-related issues. He noted that many patients make the mistake of visiting general physicians or unqualified practitioners who may offer ineffective or even harmful treatments.

“This is a specialized area of medicine,” he explained. “Many assume that any doctor can handle hearing problems, but the ear is a delicate organ. Mismanagement can worsen the condition or delay necessary treatment.”

He urged families and individuals experiencing hearing difficulties to seek help from professionals trained in otolaryngology. “Don’t take shortcuts when it comes to hearing health,” he added.

Global Guidelines on Radiation Exposure in Pregnancy

International health organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and American College of Radiology recommend that pregnant women avoid non-essential radiation exposure. They stress that ultrasound and MRI scans, which do not use ionizing radiation, are safer alternatives for most diagnostic needs during pregnancy.

Medical experts globally follow the ALARA principle—“As Low As Reasonably Achievable”—to minimize any exposure to radiation during pregnancy while still addressing necessary health conditions.

Studies have shown that radiation exposure above 0.1 Gray (Gy) during pregnancy—especially during the first trimester—can be detrimental to fetal development, including the brain, spine, and auditory system.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Both experts agree that the most effective strategy is prevention. This includes:

• Avoiding non-essential CT scans and X-rays during pregnancy

• Using radiation-free alternatives whenever possible

• Seeking prompt antenatal care to screen for infections

• Managing prolonged labour quickly to prevent oxygen deprivation

• Monitoring and treating neonatal jaundice before complications arise

Furthermore, public awareness campaigns are needed to educate pregnant women on the importance of minimizing radiation exposure and seeking expert medical guidance.

Final Thoughts

Congenital hearing loss not only affects a child’s ability to hear—it also impacts speech development, social interaction, and educational opportunities. By taking preventive measures, pregnant women can protect their babies from this lifelong condition.

Experts continue to emphasize the importance of routine prenatal care, careful medical imaging, and early intervention when hearing loss is suspected. As Nigeria continues to develop its healthcare infrastructure, more attention must be paid to maternal and child health, especially concerning issues like fetal auditory development.

In conclusion, while technology plays a crucial role in modern medicine, its judicious use during pregnancy can mean the difference between a healthy baby and one facing lifelong challenges. Pregnant women must remain informed and proactive to ensure the best outcomes for their children.