BOTOX® has become a household name, and millions of people have injections each year to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Women interested in BOTOX® often ask whether or not it’s safe to have injections when they’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Here’s a deeper look into how nursing and expectant moms should approach BOTOX® treatments.
BOTOX® works on dynamic wrinkles, which are the lines created as a result of facial expressions like frowning and smiling. During a BOTOX® treatment, the product is injected into strategic parts of the underlying facial muscles. BOTOX® temporarily paralyzes these muscles, which prevents wrinkles from forming when you make certain facial expressions.
The most common treatment spots for BOTOX® are the vertical frown lines between the eyebrows, horizontal browlines and crow’s feet. BOTOX® can deliver a subtle yet rejuvenated, more youthful appearance, and the results last for several months.
No studies have been done to determine the safety or effects of BOTOX® in pregnant or nursing women, nor has the FDA approved BOTOX® use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some may argue that BOTOX® would likely be safe to use while pregnant or nursing, as it generally stays where it’s injected and the dosing is very small. However, because the risks simply aren’t known, it’s best to hold off on BOTOX® treatments until your baby is born and you’ve finished breastfeeding. Feeling beautiful and putting your best face forward is important, but the health and safety of your baby should be your top priority.
