The ideal method of gonadal shielding in the neonatal unit provides the greatest radiation protection while minimizing the potential for cross-infection. This study evaluated two common methods of gonadal shielding used during neonatal chest radiography--direct shielding and shadow shielding. For direct shielding, lead was placed over the gonadal region of a phantom. For shadow shielding, lead was placed on top of the crib. Results showed that direct shielding provided a greater reduction in gonadal dose than shadow shielding.