Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Aamer Nadeem Chaudhary, M.B.B.S., D.M.R.D., F.C.P.S. (Diagnostic Radiology), Consultant, Al-Nasar Lab & Diagnostic Centre. Updated October 2026.
Quick answer: MRI is safe for children. It uses a magnetic field, not radiation. The challenge is that the child must lie still for 20 to 45 minutes in a noisy scanner. Many children aged about six and above manage this with good preparation. Younger children, or those who cannot stay still, may need sedation, which is decided with the referring doctor and must be discussed before the appointment.
Book a child’s MRI: call 0300 0341944 and mention your child’s age so the right slot and preparation can be arranged.
Why is stillness so important?
MRI builds images over several minutes for each sequence. Even small movements blur them, in the same way a photograph blurs when the camera moves during a long exposure. A blurred sequence has to be repeated, which makes the scan longer and harder for the child.
So preparation is not about bravery. It is about helping your child understand what will happen so that nothing comes as a surprise.
Preparing your child at home
- Explain honestly and simply. “You will lie on a bed that slides into a big tunnel. It makes loud knocking noises, like a drum. It does not hurt at all. Your job is to be a statue”
- Never say it will be quick if it will not. Children cope better with the truth than with a broken promise
- Practise the statue game. Lie still on the bed at home for a few minutes, then a little longer each day. Make it a challenge with praise at the end
- Play scanner sounds. Many MRI noise recordings are available online. Hearing the knocking beforehand removes much of the fear
- Talk about it a day or two before, not weeks ahead, which can build anxiety, and not on the morning, which leaves no time to absorb it
- Plan a reward for afterwards, something small and specific
What helps by age
| Age | What usually works |
|---|---|
| Babies under about 6 months | Feed and wrap, so the baby sleeps naturally during the scan. Ask whether a feed and sleep approach is suitable for your baby’s scan |
| About 6 months to 5 years | Most children this age cannot lie still long enough. Sedation is often needed. Discuss with the referring doctor in advance |
| About 6 to 10 years | Many manage with preparation, a parent in the room and a favourite story or music |
| Over 10 | Usually manage like adults with a clear explanation |
These are guides, not rules. A calm four year old may manage and an anxious nine year old may not. You know your child best, so tell the team honestly.
Sedation: what to ask
If your child may need sedation, raise it when booking, not on the day. Ask:
- Is sedation needed for this scan, and who will decide?
- How long must my child fast beforehand?
- Who monitors my child during and after the scan?
- How long will we stay afterwards?
Fasting instructions for sedation are strict and are there for safety. If you are given them, follow them exactly, and do not give food or milk “just a little” on the way.
Can a parent stay in the room?
Often yes, after completing the same metal safety checks as the child. A parent’s hand on a leg or a familiar voice through the scan can make a large difference. Ask when booking.
Parents who are pregnant should mention it, and anyone with a pacemaker or other implant cannot enter the scanner room.
On the day
- Dress your child in clothes with no metal: no zips, poppers, glitter prints or hair clips
- Bring a favourite soft toy without metal parts, a blanket, and a drink and snack for afterwards unless fasting
- Bring previous scans and reports, and the referral letter
- Tell the team about any implant, such as a cochlear implant, shunt valve, brace or metal fragment
- Remove dental retainers and anything removable from the mouth
- Arrive a little early so your child is not rushed
Does my child need contrast?
Many children’s scans need no injection. If contrast is needed, a small cannula is placed in the hand or arm. Numbing cream applied beforehand can make this much easier, so ask whether it will be used. Our contrast guide explains the safety checks.
Common reasons children have MRI
- Brain: seizures, developmental delay, headaches with warning signs. See our brain MRI guide
- Spine: back pain with neurological signs, spinal abnormalities
- Joints: sports injuries, persistent swelling. See knee MRI
- Abdomen and pelvis: when ultrasound needs clarifying
For many children’s problems, ultrasound is tried first because it is quick, quiet and needs no stillness.
MRI for children at Al-Nasar Lab
Al-Nasar Lab & Diagnostic Centre has served Lahore since 1996 and holds ISO 15189:2022 accreditation from the Pakistan National Accreditation Council. MRI and ultrasound are available at our Johar Town campus, reported by consultant radiologists. When you book, tell us your child’s age and any concerns so we can advise on preparation.
Related reading: is MRI safe and what to expect and open and closed MRI. See our accreditations, find your nearest location, or contact us to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MRI safe for children?
Yes. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves, with no radiation. The main safety step is screening for metal and implants.
Will my child need sedation for an MRI?
It depends on age, the length of the scan and how well your child can keep still. Discuss it with the referring doctor and mention it when booking.
Can I stay with my child during the MRI?
Often yes, after the same metal safety checks. Ask when booking.
How long does a child’s MRI take?
Usually 20 to 45 minutes depending on the area being scanned.
How can I help my child stay still?
Explain honestly, practise lying still at home, play recordings of scanner noise beforehand, and plan a small reward for afterwards.
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Follow the specific instructions given by your child’s doctor and the radiology team.
