You and your doctor should talk about all your treatment options, in order to find those that are best for you. If your doctor recommends electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), you should get a complete medical exam, including your medical history, physical and neurological exams, a heart test called an EKG, and lab tests. Your doctor should closely check what medicines you’ve taken or are taking, too. Keep in mind that you’ll probably need medicine or other treatment to prevent a relapse. Many doctors suggest follow-up treatment that includes medicine or ECT given less often, called "maintenance ECT."