Q: Why is radiation monitoring important in family planning?
A: Flying can expose reproductive cells and the unborn to ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation can cause genetic defects. In most cases, the levels of radiation on board an aircraft translate to a low level of risk to the unborn child. For crew who spend hundreds of hours per year in flight, the risk of damage is higher than for those who fly only occasionally. By monitoring and knowing the amount of radiation to which you (both men and women) are exposed in your regular flight schedule, it is possible to have an informed discussion with your health care professional about your occupation and family planning .