Getting a tattoo while pregnant is a commonly asked question, especially for expectant mothers who want to commemorate the special journey of pregnancy. While there is no strict law against it, most health experts and tattoo artists advise against getting a tattoo during pregnancy due to potential health risks.
Here’s why it’s generally not recommended:
1. Risk of Infection
Even in reputable tattoo studios, there is always a small risk of infection, including serious ones like HIV or Hepatitis B/C if equipment is not properly sterilized. While this risk is low in professional environments, any infection during pregnancy can potentially affect both the mother and baby.
2. Skin Changes During Pregnancy
Pregnancy hormones cause skin stretching, sensitivity, and pigmentation changes. Tattooing on skin that is stretched or more sensitive may cause increased pain, and the tattoo may distort or fade unevenly after the skin returns to its normal state postpartum.
3. Allergic Reactions
Some people develop allergic reactions to tattoo ink—even if they’ve had tattoos before without issue. During pregnancy, your immune system is altered, making unexpected reactions more likely and potentially harder to treat safely.
4. Pain and Stress
The pain and stress of getting a tattoo may cause muscle contractions or increased blood pressure, which could pose risks, especially in high-risk pregnancies.
5. Limited Medication Options
If an infection or complication arises, treatment options are limited during pregnancy since many antibiotics or pain relievers are not safe for unborn babies.
What Do Professionals Say?
Most tattoo artists refuse to tattoo pregnant clients due to ethical and liability concerns. Similarly, doctors and midwives generally advise waiting until after the baby is born to minimize any potential health risks.
When Is It Safe to Get a Tattoo?
It’s generally safest to wait until after childbirth and breastfeeding, as your body will have returned to its usual state, and you’ll be better able to tolerate discomfort and recover from the tattooing process.
Summing Up
While it’s technically possible to get a tattoo while pregnant, the potential risks outweigh the benefits. For the health of both you and your baby, it’s best to wait until after pregnancy to get inked. If you’re set on a tattoo idea, consider sketching it out now and use the time to refine your design—then book your appointment when it’s safer.
