2006-08-23 14:43:05 · 8 answers · asked by lisarose m 1 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Other - Pregnancy & Parenting
Is it safe to get a tattoo while breastfeeding?
Tattoos are created by injecting ink into the dermal (second and third) layer of the skin. Tattooists use a hand-held electric machine that is fitted with solid needles coated in the ink. The needles enter the skin hundreds of times a minute to a depth of up to a few millimeters. The ink that is used in tattoos in the United States is subject to FDA regulation as cosmetics, but none are approved for injection under the skin. However, the ink molecules are too large to pass into breastmilk.
General information about tattooing also applies to breastfeeding women. Local and systemic infections are the most prevalent risks of tattooing. Local infections can occur when the recommended aftercare regimen is not followed. Aftercare includes keeping the tattoo clean with mild soap and water, not picking at the scabs and keeping the tattoo out of the sun. Tylenol is often prescribed for the pain, if needed. Systemic infections occur when universal precautions are not followed by the tattoo artist and can include such diseases as hepatitis, tetanus and HIV.
It is very important to screen the tattooist and the shop carefully, checking with the local health department for local laws and regulations. Professional tattooists will follow universal precautions such as sterilization of the tattoo machine using an autoclave, single-use inks, ink cups, gloves and needles, bagging of equipment to avoid cross contamination, and thorough hand washing with disinfectant soap. Most tattooists will not knowingly tattoo a pregnant or breastfeeding mother. It is suggested that mothers wait at least until the child's first birthday to give their bodies a chance to recover completely from childbirth before getting a tattoo
2006-08-23 15:58:23 · answer #1 · answered by Tiffany 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is no evidence that getting a tattoo will affect breastfeeding. There should be no harm to mom or baby from the dyes injected. If you get a tattoo, the biggest concern for anyone (not just nursing moms) is infection (hepatitis or HIV)-- so make sure the place you go has good references and is clean.
2006-08-23 22:57:21 · answer #2 · answered by momma2mingbu 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I would wait. When you get a tattoo you do put yourself at a slight risk for Hepatitis. Most tattoo parlor use clean equipment and ink. If you really do not want to wait, make sure you check everything out. Have them sterilize the needles in front of you. Most Tattoo parlor have sterilization equipment like hospitals do. Also make sure they use one time only inks. If they do not want to show you there stuff, leave. To be the safest I would wait.
2006-08-23 23:40:31 · answer #3 · answered by ab3mom 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I wouldn't...Everything u inject into your body(including ink) can effect breastfeeding. So wait until you stop breastfeeding.
2006-08-23 22:00:27 · answer #4 · answered by jerneemomma04 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
my god no. the ink WILL affect the milk. But i could just see the expression on the artists face as he first applies the needle & you squirt him in the face LMAO
2006-08-23 23:52:50 · answer #5 · answered by RickeTy 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Don't you think it might distract the tattoo artist a little?
2006-08-23 21:49:51 · answer #6 · answered by mommadillo 4 · 1⤊ 2⤋
i wouldn't...it might affect the baby in some way....just like eating some foods would affect the baby....just don't
2006-08-23 21:49:58 · answer #7 · answered by Cat 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Yes, Sure, Why not?
2006-08-23 22:55:22 · answer #8 · answered by Stella 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋