Medical Genetics Physical factors (including radiation) X-rays and radiation given as cancer therapy can affect the baby. Your medical carers will be very cautious about giving you an abdominal X-ray if you are pregnant or potentially pregnant (this means almost every woman of child bearing age!).Medical Genetics Physical factors (including radiation) X-rays and radiation given as cancer therapy can affect the baby. Your medical carers will be very cautious about giving you an abdominal X-ray if you are pregnant or potentially pregnant (this means almost every woman of childbearing age!)