WEEKDAY Law #w08: "Is there any problem about doing ultrasound exams during pregnancy?"

Often, the purpose of an ultrasound is to determine the status of the fetus, and when necessary doctors will recommend an abortion. Since in most cases according to Jewish Law, an abortion is not acceptable, the ultrasound will only cause anxiety and anguish to the parents.

Another issue with an ultrasound is the fact that if there is a problem with the child, so long that we are not aware of it, our prayers and trust in G-d can help to change the situation that everything will be fine. Once mankind is aware of the problem, then a miracle is required to change the status.

In any case, according to the Midrash, there are things that human beings are not meant to know, including whether the baby is going to be a male or a female.

There are also medical issues with overuse of routine ultrasounds - and the risks versus the benefits need to be carefully analyzed. These issues are beyond the scope of this discussion. Of course, in a case where doctors recommend an ultrasound for an existing medical need, the rabbinical authority asked will almost always permit it.

Copyright © 2016 Halacha2go, All rights reserved.

Please note that these laws apply in general situations. In unique circumstances, a different law may apply.

If you are unsure whether what you read here applies to your particular situation, please consult a rabbinic authority.

Back to Top          Back to One-Minute Laws Index