Can You Get a Tattoo While Pregnant? Safety and Risks
Is it dangerous to get a tattoo while pregnant? What do I have to consider if I am planning a baby? Dermatologist Dr. Daniela Wiebels answers the most important questions.
It is better not to get a tattoo during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
A tattoo is an injury to the skin, germs can penetrate, a bacterial infection threatens, this may have to be treated with an antibiotic. But now you should avoid antibiotics as much as possible.
You can also be allergic to some tattoo inks.
So-called contact sensitivity is not so common with black tones, more with bright colors such as green, yellow, but especially red. A cortisone ointment can help, but you shouldn’t use it during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In addition, it is assumed that sensitization, i.e. allergies, can be transferred to the child.
In any case, the pain of the mother when tattooing is passed on to the child – just like any state of mind. So if you as an expectant mom lie for an hour at the tattoo artist and suffer, it is not a great circumstance for the baby.
As soon as you have weaned, you can treat yourself to a tattoo.
Tip: Pay attention to the right colors. There has been a tattooing agent regulation since 2008. Ask your tattoo artist whether his colors are subject to this regulation, because tones that contain dangerous substances that can cause cancer, for example, keep appearing.
Who is still planning a baby
It is best to decorate areas with a lettering or picture that will not be stretched during pregnancy. The abdominal wall and breasts can get stretch marks – but your child’s name with stripes is not fun.
For those who have already been pregnant
Remember that even after weaning you often won’t have your original figure for a few months. Breasts and stomach can still shrink, as can the thighs, because expectant moms often put on weight.
Risk of infection
Unfortunately, hepatitis B, C, or HIV are still transmitted when tattooing. In the studio, make sure that the tattoo artist works with disposable needles, wears gloves and that the tool is sterilized.
Also think about the future
The tones black, brown and blue can be removed quite well with the laser. If you don’t like your tattoo anymore – get rid of it.