Biological, chemical, and radiological exposures in pregnancy

Pregnant women represent a unique population that differs from the populace at large both in terms of susceptibility to certain agents and in the management of any exposures. This chapter addresses some of the special concerns of pregnant women exposed to a selected list of biological, chemical, and radiological agents. Obstetricians may be called on to make recommendations about management of pregnant women with these exposures. Pregnancy can confound the diagnosis of some of the conditions, and can result in delays in prompt initiation of treatment or prophylaxis due to concerns about risk to the developing fetus. Obstetricians play a critical role in evaluation, in treatment, and in advising of colleagues who are first responders or in primary care, public health, or emergency medicine. In most situations, treatment or prophylaxis for pregnant women does not differ from that for non-pregnant women.