About a week or so after I give birth, I plan on going back to the tanning bed...?

Question

I completely stopped when I found out that I was expecting. But my question is, will it have any affect on me breastfeeding?

Answer 1

Have you ever heard of skin cancer? Skip the tanning and stay healthy for the baby. That should be your focus now.

Answer 2

Women who are breastfeeding need to consider how long they have been breastfeeding when deciding whether or not to visit a tanning bed," says Chase. "If you just had your baby and have only been breastfeeding for a week, your milk production is still in the early stages and you may want to wait on that tanning appointment. However, if you have been breastfeeding for a few months and your milk production is adequate and consistent, there should not be a problem with a short visit to add a little color back into your skin. But use this procedure responsibly. Don't go into a tanning bed without protecting your breasts as they may dry, crack, get sunburned, all of which can make breastfeeding very uncomfortable. Wear a halter top, a jogging bra or a towel to cover the entire breast area. Tanning can be relaxing, refreshing and a great way for Mom to get some 'me' time, as long as it is done sensibly."

"I love going tanning," says Cyndi Prower, a stay-at-home mom from Columbus, Ohio. "I couldn't wait to go tanning after my baby was born, as I had become so pale, I was often told I looked ill. But, as I was breastfeeding, I was very concerned about what the effects of the tanning bed would be. I asked my doctor and was told as long as I protected my breasts from burning and drying out, as well as avoided using any of the tanning creams on the breast area, a 10 or 15 minute visit would be fine. I was very happy to hear this and made an appointment that day. I've been tanning twice a week for three months – protecting my breasts by wearing an exercise bra – and it has not affected my ability to produce milk or breastfeed my daughter at all."

Answer 3

If tanning is something that is important to you, you should do it. People need to understand that new mothers have needs too...it can't be all about the baby. Someone said that if you have time to tan, you should change your parenting style? Give me a break. I'm sure your husband can look after the child. You have had the last 10 months of your life revolve around the child. 30 minutes a week of being alone and doing what you enjoy is not a bad thing. The only thing I suggest is double checking with your doctor to make sure of the negative affects it might have on breastfeeding. Good luck to you!

Answer 4

"Tanning

Tanning is completely compatible with breastfeeding and will not alter the milk whatsoever. There is no record of any dangers to the breastfed baby in relation to tanning. Sometimes clients are given Carotene to enhance the tanning - that should be avoided while breastfeeding. Make sure to protect your nipples from burn (for your own comfort more than anything), and keep in mind that ultraviolet exposure ages skin prematurely and increases the risk of cancer. "
http://www.kellymom.com/health/lifestyle/mom-activities.html#Tanning

"Is it safe to use a tanning bed? Will it affect my milk?
The BREASTFEEDING ANSWER BOOK, 3rd revised edition, published by La Leche League International, states on page 449, "No evidence exists that the nursing mother's use of tanning beds has any effect on her breastfed baby."

It is important to limit exposure so that burning is avoided. Some mothers have reported getting burnt nipples and breasts when using tanning beds. This is extremely painful so be sure to cover your nipples and breasts and use caution. If any vitamins or medications are suggested to enhance the tanning, be sure to check with your health care provider before taking them."
http://www.lalecheleague.org/FAQ/tan.html

Answer 5

I am very fair so I don't tan... I'm scared of skin cancer (plus it really ages you!)... so I don't know much about it... but I would advise that you wait at least a month until breastfeeding is well established and going well. When I started nursing I had latch-on problems and my nipples were cracked and sore... I think that tanning (especially when you haven't for a while) might exasperate any problems. So I would hold off for at least a month if I were you.

Answer 6

I would wait until you talk to your doctor. First, you will still be bleeding, and you can't wear tampons. Second, it may effect your milk supply. We really don't know what happens, but it's better to be safe then sorry. Of course, usually it's safe. You just have to use caution and if you decide to go through with it, go for the shortest amount of time possible. You will still be tan, it just may not be as tan as you want.

Answer 7

No I think the vit d from the uv's may actually be beneficial and plus tanning makes u feel good..it is scientifically proven!Emotionally that is!So I would say go for it!You need to relaxing peaceful time!

Answer 8

maybe you should stop being vain and shallow, and worry more about your baby.

if you have enough time to go to the tanning salon, you may want to rethink your parenting plan.