Investigation of fetal exposure to electromagnetic waves between 2.45 and 5 GHz during pregnancy

Authors: Il N, Ates K, Özen S

Year: 2025 Sep 25

Category: Radiation Dosimetry, Electromagnetic Field Safety

Journal: Radiation Protection Dosimetry

DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncaf110

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40995977/

Abstract

Overview

This study assesses the specific absorption rate (SAR) in the fetal brain and lungs during the second trimester of pregnancy under body exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) between 2.45 and 5 GHz.

Research Approach

  • SAR calculations were conducted for both frontal and lateral incidences.
  • Vertical and horizontal polarization of incident EM waves were considered.
  • Frequencies assessed ranged from 2.45 to 5 GHz.
  • A highly realistic pregnant human model, including a belly button piercing, was used for nonionizing dosimetry simulations.

Findings

  • SAR increases in the presence of metal objects, such as belly-button piercings.
  • The fetus’s lungs recorded the highest SAR10g at 16 mW/kg at 2.45 GHz.
  • The fetus’s brain exhibited a maximum SAR10g of 14 mW/kg at 2.45 GHz.
  • All obtained SAR values were below the safety limits set by international bodies such as IEEE and ICNIRP.

Conclusion

Metal objects on the body, like piercings, can amplify fetal RF-EMF exposure. While values remained within internationally accepted limits, this link points to the critical need for precaution regarding metallic object use during pregnancy due to increased susceptibility to electromagnetic field exposure.

fetal exposure pregnancy EMF SAR radiofrequency metal objects nonionizing radiation
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