One of the most widely used non-surgical methods of skin remedy known; Botox is used to remove fine lines and wrinkles on the face, to achieve a younger look. Tens of millions of people around the world, including men, employ the use of the toxin to reduce the presence of wrinkles.
The use of Botox is mostly by women who have already reached the age of conception. This explains why most women ask whether it is a safe idea to get injected with Botox during pregnancy. So, can you get Botox when pregnant? Find out below.
Can You Get Botox During Pregnancy?
Everyone wants to put on their best look at all times. But this becomes increasingly difficult as you grow older, enter Botox. This cosmetic lifeline is used to reduce or eliminate the presence of wrinkles and fine lines on the face.
But is it a good idea to get a Botox injection while you’re pregnant? Let’s find out.
Records have shown that women who got Botox injections and discovered later on that they were pregnant had uneventful pregnancies. Assuring, isn’t it?
One thing to note is that worrying so much about the effects of Botox could cause a strain on your mental health which is bad for you and your baby. So it’s important to ease your mind off the effects of Botox for peace of mind.
So, if you just had your Botox treatment and discovered later that you are pregnant, there’s no cause for alarm. It is highly unlikely for the Botox to cross the placenta and affect the uterus. However, if you’re deep into your pregnancy and you’re planning for a Botox treatment, it is better to hold upon such an idea till further notice. At least, till you’ve had your baby.
Some neurotoxins are considered unsafe for pregnant moms. Botox, on the other hand, is classified under the C category of drugs. This means that studies on animal reproduction demonstrate an adverse effect on the fetus.
But pregnant animals are not pregnant moms and the issue is that no formal studies have been carried out on pregnant women. Also, there’s no study to explain the effects of this drug on breast milk. So how exactly are you going to decide?
We’ve come up with the side effects of Botox to aid your decision-making.
Effects of Botox
One major risk of Botox is the fear of the drug spreading beyond the area of localization. This spread leads to a dangerous condition known as Botulism.
According to the FDA, the following are the symptoms of Botulism:
- Blurred vision or double vision.
- Weakness in the muscles.
- Hoarseness.
- Difficulty in forming words during speech.
- Difficulty in breathing.
- Difficulty in swallowing.
- Loss of bladder control.
These symptoms could develop within hours of injection. Sometimes, these symptoms could take up to days or even weeks to develop. Once you notice any of these symptoms, please do notify your doctor right away for proper consultation.
As seen above, no symptom directly affects the course of pregnancy. This can also be attributed to the lack of research on Botox treatment during pregnancy, as well as the direct effects it may or may not have on pregnant moms.
Instead of taking the risk, why not check out alternative treatments for skin wrinkles and other skin issues.
Alternatives to Botox during Pregnancy
Ever tried peels instead of Botox? Unlike Botox, research has been carried out on the use of peels, and the results are encouraging. Glycolic and lactic acid peels have been recommended. However, you might want to avoid salicylic acid peels.
Other alternatives with simpler methods include:
- Moisturizing the skin and face several times a day.
- Drinking sufficient amounts of water to keep the skin hydrated.
- Exfoliation.
CONCLUSION
There’s no research to suggest adverse effects of Botox on pregnant moms. However, this lack of extensive research is enough reason to hold up on the Botox treatment until your baby is born and breastfeeding is complete.