Who Should Avoid TMS Treatment?

Q: Can anyone with a pacemaker receive TMS?

No, TMS is unsafe for pacemaker users. Pacemakers and TMS are generally incompatible due to magnetic interference risks.

Q: Is TMS safe during pregnancy?

There is limited research on TMS use during pregnancy, so it’s typically avoided unless medically justified.

Q: Can TMS trigger seizures?

Rarely, yes. TMS can trigger seizures in people with a history of epilepsy or other seizure disorders, although the risk is very low.

Q: Can TMS be used in psychiatric emergencies?

No, TMS is not suitable for psychiatric emergencies or crisis situations. It’s designed as a scheduled, non-emergency treatment.

Q: Are all metal implants a risk for TMS?

Only magnetic-sensitive or cranial implants are a concern for TMS. Non-magnetic or distant body implants typically pose no risk.

October 8, 2025
Mimood
Blog

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a revolutionary therapy for depression and other mental health conditions. While highly effective, it’s not suitable for everyone. Understanding TMS contraindications ensures safety and better outcomes.

Who Should Not Get TMS

Metal Implants and TMS

People with magnetic-sensitive implants (e.g., cochlear implants, deep brain stimulators) should avoid TMS. Magnetic fields can interfere with metal devices.

Pacemaker and TMS Exclusion

Patients with pacemakers or implanted defibrillators fall under TMS exclusion due to the risk of device malfunction.

History of Seizures TMS Risk

Individuals with a seizure history may face increased risk. TMS is generally avoided or carefully monitored for these patients. For managing mood symptoms associated with neurological conditions, explore our depression therapy page.

TMS and Epilepsy

TMS can potentially trigger seizures. Those diagnosed with epilepsy should consult a neurologist before considering therapy.

Pregnancy TMS Therapy

Limited studies exist on TMS during pregnancy. Expectant mothers should discuss alternatives or wait until after delivery. For emotional support during pregnancy or premenstrual emotional changes, you may find our premenstrual dysphoric disorder treatment blog helpful.

TMS Not Suitable for Psychiatric Emergencies

TMS is not a fast-acting solution for crises such as suicidal ideation. Emergency interventions and immediate medical care are required instead.

Understanding TMS Safety Risks

While non-invasive, TMS has TMS safety risks, including headaches, scalp discomfort, or, rarely, seizures. Mimood ensures pre-treatment screening to minimize complications.

Fun Fact: Less than 0.01% of TMS patients experience a seizure during therapy, making it one of the safest non-drug interventions for depression.

TMS Absolute Contraindications

Some conditions represent TMS absolute contraindications:

Metallic devices in the head (excluding the mouth)
Unstable medical conditions
Certain neurological disorders

For a full assessment, clinics like Mimood provide thorough screening to ensure patient safety and personalized treatment planning.

Why Pre-Treatment Screening Matters

Even with advanced TMS protocols, skipping pre-screening can lead to serious complications. Mimood integrates mental health evaluation, neurological history checks, and device assessments to reduce risks.

Verified Data: Studies show TMS has a 50–60% response rate in treatment-resistant depression, but only when administered after proper screening.

Benefits of TMS for Eligible Patients

Even though some people cannot take TMS, eligible patients experience benefits like:

Non-invasive therapy
No systemic side effects like medication
Improved mood and focus

Mimood ensures patients who meet safety criteria get maximum results from their TMS sessions.

FAQs

Q1: Can anyone with a pacemaker receive TMS?
A1: No, TMS is unsafe for pacemaker users (Pacemaker and TMS exclusion).

Q2: Is TMS safe during pregnancy?
A2: Limited data exists; it’s generally avoided (Pregnancy TMS therapy).

Q3: Can TMS trigger seizures?
A3: Rarely, yes. Risk is higher for those with a history of seizures, TMS risk, or TMS and epilepsy.

Q4: Can TMS be used in psychiatric emergencies?
A4: No, it’s not suitable for crises (TMS not suitable for psychiatric emergencies).

Q5: Are all metal implants a risk for TMS?
A5: Only magnetic-sensitive or cranial implants (Metal implants and TMS) are a concern.

Conclusion

TMS is a safe and effective treatment when applied correctly. Understanding who should not get TMS helps avoid complications. Clinics like Mimood provide expert screening and personalized TMS therapy for eligible patients, ensuring both safety and results.