Buzz
Henna tattoos are temporary and only affect the outer layer of the skin. However, is it advisable to opt for permanent tattoos while expecting?
katrinaelena/iStock/ThinkstockFor countless women, pregnancy represents a cherished phase of life. Some may wish to celebrate this period with a lasting tattoo. However, since tattoos involve introducing ink into your skin, it's crucial to consider the potential risks during pregnancy.
As of 2015, there is no definitive research on how tattoo ink impacts fetal health and development. Nonetheless, the tattooing process can lead to side effects, infections, or allergic reactions, prompting many medical professionals and tattoo artists to advise against it during pregnancy.
Pregnancy brings numerous unpredictable changes to a woman's body. Hair texture, sense of smell, and skin sensitivity can all differ from pre-pregnancy states. Even if you’ve had tattoos before without issues, pregnancy increases the risk of allergic reactions, which can vary from mild to severe. For an expectant mother, taking such a risk may not be advisable.
Essential Tattoo Safety Guidelines
These recommendations are crucial for anyone considering a tattoo. Before proceeding, thoroughly research your chosen tattoo studio and artist to ensure they meet health and safety standards. Seek referrals, verify the artist's license, and confirm the following:
- The studio and workspace must be spotless.
- Your artist should wear gloves from a sealed, sterile package.
- All needles, instruments, inks, and containers must be unopened and unused in your presence.
- Needles should be single-use and discarded after each session.
- Reusable tools must undergo sterilization in an autoclave.
Failure to adhere to these guidelines by a studio or artist can expose you (and your unborn child) to infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. If you proceed with a tattoo and later suspect inadequate safety practices, consult a doctor and request testing for bloodborne infections.
Pregnancy-Specific Tattoo Safety Concerns
Since there is no long-term research on how tattoo inks impact pregnancy, their effects on the fetus remain unknown. However, here are some key points to consider:
- Be cautious about lower back tattoos, as some hospitals avoid administering epidurals near recently tattooed areas.
- The tattooing process can trigger an adrenaline surge and impact blood sugar levels, so bring snacks and drinks to stay balanced.
- Pregnancy causes skin to stretch, so carefully select the tattoo location to account for this change.
- Many tattoo studios avoid the legal risks of tattooing pregnant women and may decline service. Most women are required to sign a waiver confirming they are not pregnant.
Keeping these factors in mind will help you have a more informed conversation with both your obstetrician and your tattoo artist.
