Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

Which of the following is a contraindication for sclerotherapy?

1. Diabetes

2. Pregnancy

3. Chronic skin conditions

4. Age over 40

The correct answer is: Pregnancy

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used primarily to treat varicose veins and spider veins by injecting a solution that causes the veins to collapse and gradually fade from view. Pregnancy is a contraindication for sclerotherapy due to the physiological changes that occur during this time, including hormonal fluctuations and increased blood volume, which may affect the safety and efficacy of the treatment. During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes that can place stress on the vascular system. Additionally, the risks of potential complications such as thrombosis, bleeding, or adverse reactions to the sclerosant can increase. Therefore, practitioners typically recommend postponing sclerotherapy until after delivery to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus. In contrast, conditions like diabetes, chronic skin conditions, or age over 40 are not absolute contraindications. With careful consideration and appropriate adjustments in treatment protocols, individuals with these conditions may still undergo sclerotherapy, provided their health is monitored and managed effectively.