Are Any Retinoids Safe for Pregnancy?
Retinoids are a common treatment option for those suffering from a variety of serious skin disorders. Because of the powerful ingredients in retinoids, the risks associated with their use must be carefully understood by women who are considering pregnancy or who are already pregnant.
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Function
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Retinoids are prescription oral or topical medications that are used to treat severe forms of acne or ichthyosis (dry, scaly skin). They are synthetic derivatives of vitamin A, and their use must be regularly monitored by an experienced dermatologist.
Types
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The two most common types of retinoids are Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, and Soriatane, also known as acetretin. Because of possible long-term side effects, retinoids are typically used after treatment with oral antibiotics has been proven unsuccessful.
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Pregnancy Safety
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According to the March of Dimes, it is not safe to take any oral retinoids while pregnant. Topical retinoids, which penetrate the skin and may be absorbed into the bloodstream, should be avoided if possible because there is conflicting evidence on whether they cause birth defects.
Considerations
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In addition to women who are already pregnant, those who are trying to conceive or having unprotected sex should avoid the use of retinoids in case of conception. Also, postpartum women who are breastfeeding should not use retinoids because it can possibly be passed through breast milk.
Side Effects
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Women who take retinoids during their pregnancy have a high risk of having a baby born with serious birth defects or may suffer a miscarriage, even if a small amount is taken for a short time. Birth defects can include mental retardation, cleft palate and other facial abnormalities, heart defects, ear and eye abnormalities, small head and brain and enlargement of the fluid-filled spaces in the brain.
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