In recent years, botulinum toxin has seen increasingly widespread application in medical aesthetics—for facial slimming, wrinkle reduction, and even treating axillary odor. Consequently, many individuals seek botulinum toxin injections for cosmetic purposes. Among these individuals, a significant number are women of childbearing age who inevitably wonder: Does botulinum toxin affect pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Our editorial team at Public Health Network has compiled the approved statements regarding pregnant and lactating women for the domestically approved botulinum toxins Hengli and Botox:
Pregnancy
There is insufficient data on the use of this product in pregnant women. Animal studies indicate reproductive toxicity, though the relevance of this risk to humans remains unclear. Unless the benefits are deemed to outweigh the potential risks, pregnant women should generally avoid using this product.
Breastfeeding
There is no data on whether this product is excreted in breast milk. It is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.
Theoretically, botulinum toxin could only affect the fetus if it produced physical effects on the mother, which would require daily or regular high-dose injections. This scenario appears highly unlikely in humans.However, it is advisable to wait at least three months after Botox treatment before considering pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs shortly after treatment, termination is not necessary, but strict prenatal monitoring is essential, with prompt intervention if any issues arise. Breastfeeding women must absolutely avoid Botox treatment, as no research exists on whether it is excreted in breast milk or whether it could adversely affect infants.