Is it safe to use tanning beds while you are breastfeeding??

Answer 1

Oh my god people drive me nuts with there opinionated comments that have nothing to do with the question at hand. She asked if it was harmful while breastfeeding not if it was harmful to her, what the statistics are on skin cancer. Just answer the question people and keep you opinions to yourself. I'm she knows the risks. I've been using the tanning bed for almost 25 years and I say do what you want it's your decision. I work in the medical field and have never heard it to be harmful when breastfeeding. EVERYONE has something they do that can be deemed harmful to their life so don't be such hypocrites.

Answer 2

Tanning salons can be very enticing at this time of year when you want to begin developing a golden glow before heading out to the swimming pool or beach. But, contrary to many of the salon's claims (and popular belief), they are not without risks. The Federal Trade Commission warns consumers to be cautious when they hear advertising that tanning in a salon can be done safely, and without the harmful effects of the sun.

Research shows that ultraviolet rays can cause premature aging, sagging and wrinkling of the skin, eye injury (cataracts and retinal damage) and contributes to a much greater risk of skin cancer. Though ultraviolet rays don't (visibly) burn the skin as readily as a trip to the beach might, UV rays penetrate more deeply, weakening the skin's inner connective tissue. It can lead to melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. Americans (caucasians) have a 1 in 100 chance of developing melanoma, up 34% since 1973.

If looking for a tanning salon in your area, choose a reputable salon with a trained staff, that focuses on safety, cleanliness and comfort. When visiting a tanning salon, to reduce your risks:

Ask about the precautions the salon takes to ensure cleanliness. It is important that tanning beds be properly cleaned after each use to avoid the spreading of germs, bacteria and viruses.
Wear eye protection. The Food and Drug Administration requires that tanning salons instruct all their customers to wear protective eye goggles. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient to protect the eyes. Damage can occur to the eyes without you even being aware of it.
Choose the minimum dose of light.
Limit your exposure. The greater your exposure, the more likelihood you have of damaging your skin.
Make sure that the salon has trained staff to monitor you and to closely follow your progress.
If taking medications, over-the-counter, or prescription (such as antihistamines, tranquilizers and birth control pills), ask your pharmacist if they cause light-sensitivity.
If you have a medical condition, such as diabetes or lupus, be aware that exposure to UV rays can aggravate your condition. Check with your Health Care Provider.
Wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, and reapply frequently.
Though you see that visiting a tanning salon is not without risks, there is no research to indicate any problem directly related to use of a tanning bed while breastfeeding. Best wishes!
http://parenting.ivillage.com/newborn/nbreastfeed/0,,3x03-p,00.html

Answer 3

If you want to go tanning...ignore everyone else! I heard so many rumors so I called the lactode consultants at the hospital I delivered at & they said it was perfectly fine, of coarse this is your babies health so please do not take my advice, give the breast feeding consultants at your hospital a call & see what they say, I am almost 100% sure they will tell you it is safe for the baby & milk supply as I was told.

Answer 4

You don't mean you and the baby getting a tan at the same time do you? As far as the milk goes, it would have a bit more vitamin D.

Answer 5

It's never safe to use tanning beds. It increases your risk of skin cancer by 8 times - that's 800%. Don't you want to see your children grow up?

Answer 6

It's NEVER safe to use tanning beds. Are you looking to get skin cancer????? Or, how bout a bunch of ugly moles?

Answer 7

There is no proof that it is damaging or bad for the baby, however, there is plenty of literature that shows that it can be harmful for you.
The article I've attached is pretty good. Take a look.

Answer 8

no no no no no... dont youu dare tan and breastfeeed,,,,,you can damage yor milk supply... the beam that go into your body will harm the miolk...thats just like putting your child on a tanning bed

Answer 9

In a word, no. But then, they're not safe anytime. Intentionally exposing yourself to UV radiation at close range to your entire body... keeping those oncologists in business...

Answer 10

It is NEVER save to use tanning beds.