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For pregnant patients during X-rays, the recommended type of shielding is a lead apron without a thyroid collar. This is because lead aprons are effective in reducing radiation exposure to patients, including pregnant individuals. The primary concern during radiological procedures is to protect the fetus from unnecessary radiation exposure.

A lead apron provides a substantial level of protection because lead is a dense material that effectively absorbs radiation. In the context of pregnant patients, the lead apron helps to shield the abdominal area, thereby reducing the dose to the developing fetus.

The use of a thyroid collar is typically aimed at protecting the thyroid gland from radiation. However, during procedures on pregnant patients, the focus is more on protecting the abdomen rather than the thyroid area, since the primary concern is fetal health. Therefore, while the thyroid collar can provide additional protection, it is not essential when the main objective is to shield the fetus with adequate lead coverage over the abdomen.

It's important for the radiology team to follow appropriate guidelines and protocols to ensure the safety of both the patient and the fetus, which is why using a lead apron without unnecessary additional shielding for the thyroid area is often regarded as sufficient in this situation.