The new rules: Ask men if they're pregnant

Published 16 August 2024 at 12.58

Foreign. New guidelines from the UK NHS, which state that even men must be asked if they are pregnant before X-rays, have caused uproar and debate in the UK.

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The reason for the guidelines is stated to be to avoid exposing unborn children to harmful radiation. This after a pregnant woman who claimed to be male underwent a CT scan without being asked about pregnancy.

However, the guidelines, which aim not to make assumptions about someone's “gender identity”, have been met with criticism and irritation. According to The Telegraph, some men have become so upset that they have left patient appointments, while women have reacted emotionally to pressing questions about fertility.

Parents have also reportedly been annoyed by their children being asked what their “pronouns “.

An X-ray nurse expresses concern that the furor the guidelines could cause risks putting patients away from important tests.

Louise Irvine, a GP, also questions the rules.

– Considering that it is impossible for any of the male gender to get pregnant, there is no reason to ask male people if they are pregnant, she tells the Telegraph.