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Congratulations on your pregnancy! If you’re considering marking this special time with a tattoo, you might be wondering about the safety of getting inked while expecting. While tattoos have become increasingly popular—around 40 percent of adults in the U.S. have them—getting a tattoo during pregnancy raises several important concerns.
Health Considerations
When it comes to tattoos, there are health considerations regardless of pregnancy. Risks include allergic reactions and potential infections, such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or HIV, which could also pose a risk to your unborn child. Additionally, you’ll need to think about the pain and aftercare involved in getting a tattoo. With everything else going on, is it worth the extra effort?
There’s no definitive guideline for getting tattooed while pregnant, but there are certainly risks to consider for both you and your baby. Some studies indicate that tattoo ink may travel through lymph nodes or affect the placenta. The American Pregnancy Association warns that chemicals in tattoo ink could impact fetal development, particularly in the first trimester. However, research on the effects of tattoos later in pregnancy is lacking.
Emotional Stress and Pain
Another factor to consider is the emotional stress that can accompany getting a tattoo. The process, which involves needles and a vibrating machine, can be painful and stressful—especially if you’re already dealing with pregnancy-related discomfort. Even if you have a high pain threshold, adding stress to your pregnancy is generally not advised.
Microblading and Other Considerations
If you’re thinking about brow microblading, which involves using tiny needles to enhance eyebrows, it’s best to hold off until after childbirth. While there’s no specific research on the chemicals used in microblading, it’s safer to wait until you’re no longer pregnant.
Implications for Epidurals
Research suggests that getting a tattoo on your back or spine during pregnancy could complicate receiving an epidural. There is a concern that the tattoo needle might introduce ink into the spinal column, resulting in complications. While studies on this are limited, it’s something to keep in mind.
If You Choose to Get a Tattoo
If you decide to go ahead with a tattoo during pregnancy, take precautions to minimize risks. Ensure your tattoo artist is registered and follows strict hygiene practices, including using new, sterile needles and gloves. Check that the tattoo studio is clean and that all equipment is properly sterilized.
After Pregnancy: What to Expect
Remember, if you get a tattoo on your abdomen or hips, it may stretch and change during and after pregnancy. Additionally, if you’re considering tattoo removal, it’s best to postpone that until after giving birth, as laser treatments are not recommended during pregnancy.
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Summary
Deciding to get a tattoo while pregnant involves weighing potential risks to both yourself and your baby. While some health concerns and emotional stress are associated with the process, ensuring cleanliness and safety can help mitigate risks. Ultimately, waiting until after childbirth may be the safest option.