Do handheld metal detectors affect the fetus?

[Answer] Does a handheld metal detector affect the fetus?

Handheld metal detectors are devices that use magnetic fields to detect metals. This type of machine is often used for security purposes, such as checking passengers at airports or hotels.

Many people are concerned that exposure to handheld metal detectors could harm the fetus. However, according to scientific studies, handheld metal detectors do not affect the fetus.

Mechanism of operation of handheld metal detector

Handheld metal detectors use magnetic fields to detect metals. When the metal detector is passed through an area containing metal, the magnetic field will be deflected by the metal. This amount of magnetic field deflection is recorded by the metal detector and displayed as an audio or visual signal.

The amount of magnetic field emitted by a handheld metal detector

The amount of magnetic field emitted from a handheld metal detector is very small, only about 0.001 gauss. For comparison, the amount of magnetic field emitted from Earth is about 0.5 gauss.

Studies on the effects of handheld metal detectors on the fetus

Several studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of handheld metal detectors on the fetus. These studies show that handheld metal detectors do not cause any harm to the fetus.

A study conducted at the University of California, Berkeley, USA, followed 100 pregnant women who were scanned with handheld metal detectors at the airport. The study results showed no difference in fetal health between women who were scanned with a hand-held metal detector and women who were not.

Another study conducted at the University of Texas, USA, used mice to evaluate the impact of hand-held metal detectors on fetal development. The study results showed no difference in fetal development between mice exposed to hand-held metal detectors and mice that were not exposed.

Conclude

Based on current scientific research, handheld metal detectors do not affect the fetus. Pregnant women can go through handheld metal detectors without worry.

However, if you are still worried, you can ask the security officer to use another security screening method, such as a manual check.

Note

• Pregnant women can go through handheld metal detectors without worry.
• If you are still worried, you can ask the security staff to use another security screening method.
• The amount of magnetic field emitted from a handheld metal detector is very small, not enough to harm the fetus.