Q&A: Could living near a cell phone tower harm my pregnancy?

Some recent studies seem to indicate that there may be cause for concern for your developing baby. Cell phones generate low levels of electromagnetic radiation, the same kind of radiofrequency waves you encounter with microwaves, TVs, and dozens of other machines you encounter everyday. But with cell phones, because you are probably using them so often, and they're concentrated around your body, some researchers have cautioned pregnant women to take steps to minimize their exposure. Here are a few suggestions:

• Use a Bluetooth. These devices emit less radiation than just your cell phone.


• Remove any "skins" or decorations on your cell phone. These can interfere with the signal strength of your phone, meaning that your phone has to emit a stronger signal, so more radiation, in order to place your call.


• Try to find other ways to place calls other than with your cell phone, for instance with your landline, through your computer, or use instant messaging.