Having a baby is such a life-changing event that ink lovers and even first-time tat enthusiasts might want to permanently commit the occasion to their skin. While pregnancy isn't the best time to get inked, properly administered and well-cared-for tattoos don't pose a significant risk to you or your developing baby. If you can wait, you should, but if you're just itching to go under the needle, make safety a priority, recommends the American Pregnancy Association.
Pregnancy Concerns
Any time you get a tattoo from an artist who uses unsterile equipment, you run the risk of contracting a serious medical condition, such as HIV or hepatitis B, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Inks used in tattooing haven't been tested to make sure they don't post a risk to your developing baby. Pregnancy also causes skin changes, swelling and weight gain, which can affect the appearance of your tattoo as your pregnancy progresses and as your skin changes again after birth. The American Pregnancy Association also points out that new tattoos in certain areas of your back might prevent you from being able to receive an epidural when it comes time to deliver.
Breastfeeding Concerns
If you develop an infection from your tattoo, you can pass that infection to your baby through your breast milk. Infections such as HIV have no cure. Bacterial infections from improper tattoo care also can pass to your baby, whose underdeveloped immune system might not be able to fight them off. Your body, especially your abdomen and breasts, undergo dramatic changes during the breastfeeding period, which, like during pregnancy, can effect the appearance of your ink.
Safe Tattooing
Ask your tattoo artist to show you the facility and all the equipment, including the needles and ink. The needle and the ink packages should be sealed and opened in front of you just before you receive your tattoo. Make sure the artist wears gloves and dresses your tattoo with individually packaged gauze or bandages. If you have any question about the sterility of the equipment, ask. If your questions aren't answered to your satisfaction, don't get the tattoo. If you do get a tattoo, follow all aftercare instructions to avoid infection.
Henna
If you want a less permanent, more natural solution, henna tattoos use ink derived from plants and other natural sources. Henna tattoos last for a few weeks and you can safely use them over large parts of your body, as is traditionally done in the Middle East. Skip black henna, as it contains dangerous chemicals which can cause skin burns and blisters, according to the American Pregnancy Association.
