What is the recommended total equivalent dose limit to the embryo/fetus?

The recommended total equivalent dose limit to the embryo/fetus during pregnancy is 5.0 mSv. This limit is in place to protect the developing fetus from potential harmful effects of ionizing radiation. The dose limit considers the increased sensitivity of the embryo/fetus to radiation exposure, particularly during the first trimester when critical development occurs.

Setting this limit at 5.0 mSv aligns with the guidelines provided by health and safety organizations focused on radiation protection, such as the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP). These organizations emphasize that while some radiation exposure is inevitable in certain medical situations, the health risks must be minimized for sensitive populations, particularly pregnant individuals.

The other options represent dose limits that are either too high or not consistent with current recommendations for fetal protection. Maintaining awareness of this limit is crucial for practitioners to ensure the safety and health of both the mother and the fetus during any necessary radiation procedures.