Botulinum toxin and pregnancy: is it possible?
Written and reviewed by Dr Bernard Hayot, ophthalmologist, RPPS 10003926226.
How is botox used in aesthetic medicine?
Botulinum toxin is better known as botox. It is a toxin produced by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum, originally responsible for botulism, a disease that temporarily paralyses the muscles. This blocking effect has long been used in ophthalmology.
Once injected, botox retains this property: it blocks the neurotransmitter, so the targeted muscle relaxes temporarily. Today botulinum toxin is mainly used in aesthetic medicine to rejuvenate the face. From the age of 30, the skin becomes less elastic and less firm, and when it is deformed by muscle action, when smiling for example, small furrows mark a skin that can no longer return to its original position.
Botox treats these dynamic wrinkles, also known as expression lines: forehead wrinkles, frown lines, crow’s feet and wrinkles around the lips. It is also effective on chin and neck wrinkles. Beyond its undeniable anti-ageing effects, botox has other assets: it can reduce hyperhidrosis and bruxism, and correct an overly square jaw.
What are the benefits of botox injections?
Botox injections are among the most frequently performed procedures in anti-ageing aesthetic medicine. And for good reason: they have many benefits.
Quick and easy
Botox injections take just 15 minutes. There are no scars, and the after-effects are particularly straightforward. In general, you can resume all your usual activities after the treatment.
A painless procedure
Botulinum toxin injections are given without local anaesthetic.
Long-lasting effects… but not definitive!
The visible effects of a botox injection last from 4 to 8 months after the first session, and from 6 to 8 months after subsequent sessions. Not only is there no need for very frequent appointments, but the reversible effect may appeal to many. Botox is reabsorbed gradually and naturally.
Benefits for oily skin and dilated pores
Injected into the skin, botulinum toxin acts on oily skin and dilated pores: it reduces the output of the sebaceous glands that secrete sebum, and the complexion gains in radiance.
10 less… all natural!
Botox injections are an excellent alternative to surgery for rejuvenating the face. The skin is smoother, tighter and younger-looking, with particularly natural, discreet results.
Can pregnant women undergo botox injections?
Unfortunately, botulinum toxin injections are not suitable for pregnant women. This precautionary principle should be followed carefully, even though no study has shown any link between botox injections and fetal malformation.
Do not worry: you can take up this plan again as soon as you have given birth. And if you had an injection before you knew you were pregnant, there is nothing to worry about either. The doses are not very concentrated.
Please note: botox injections are also contraindicated while you are breastfeeding your child. A session can be arranged as soon as the baby is weaned.
This page is for information. It does not replace a consultation: every situation is judged on examination.