Parenting Australia

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What is Botox?

Botulinum toxin or Botox is a powerful neurotoxin synthesized by Clostridium botulinum and is a well known causative agent in cases involving human botulism poisoning. In the previous two decades, Botulinum toxin A (btxA) has made headway as a valuable therapeutic staple in the treatment of dystonias, particularly those involving neurological disorders characterized by involuntary contractions of the cervical and/or shoulder muscles. Botulinum toxin A, has found cosmetic applications in the treatment of wrinkles and frown lines by paralyzing the muscles which cause the wrinkles.

Use of Botox During Pregnancy

Despite the prelevant use of Botox toxin in women of child bearing age, there is limited data available on the effects of this treatment on pregnant women and the fetus.

The opinions on receiving Botox injections during pregnancy vary. The negative effects of receiving Botox injections during pregnancy first came to light in 2009, after an Australian article warned that Botox can cause birth defects.

The effects of Botox toxin administration during human pregnancy are largely unknown. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved labeling for Botox toxin as a pregnancy risk category C, and also recommends that Botox should be "administered during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus."

The first study on botox injections during pregnancy was conducted in 2004 on a patient who suffered from severe cervical dystonia. The found Botox to be a safe and effective treatment for idoipathic cervical dystonia; while the patient went on to complete four uncomplicated, full term pregnancies while receiving regular Botox treatments.

In another 2006 survey of 396 US physicians were contacted regarding the use of Botox treatment during pregnancy. The study found that a total of 16 women received Botox A injections during pregnancy; one patient received injections repeatedly during three separate singleton pregnancies, while another went on to carry twins full term. Almost all the women received their injections during the first trimester, however, one received one during the second, and another during the third. Out of the 19 pregnancies, one was medically terminated, another woman with a history of spontaneous abortions miscarried, while 17 went to full term without complications. None of the resulting infants required any postnatal care after birth.

Most recently, a 2010 study investigated the pregnancy and delivery of a 17 year old female who was accidentally treated with Botox A before she discovered she was pregnant. She completed her Botox treatment regime for a left convergent squint and later continued onward to enjoy a non complicated pregnancy with no adverse effects for mother or child.

Possible Effects of Botox On Pregnant Women

In some situations, it may be impossible to avoid the use of Botox during pregnancy. Many women are unaware of their pregnancy before beginning treatment, while others find it medically necessary to continue receiving treatment. In either situation, it is best to discuss your options with your doctor prior to treatment. For more information about this procedure, visit PlasticSurgeryGuide.com.

The following is a list of known side effects of Botox therapy:

Difficulty swallowing, breathing or speaking. This is due to the weakening of the associated muscles and can be severe enough to be fatal. Those with previously diagnosed conditions affecting swallowing or breathing are at the highest risk for developing these conditions. The difficulties in breathing and speaking will dissipate over time, however, swallowing problems may last for several months.

Unexpected spread of toxin. The effects of the toxin may spread from the treatment site to other areas which can cause serious problems including the loss of strength, generalized muscle weakness, double or blurred vision, loss of bladder control, difficulty breathing or swallowing.