Can Getting A Tattoo While Pregnant Affect Your Epidural
Yes, some research indicates getting a tattoo while pregnant could affect your epidural. Evidence points toward an increased probability of such issues with tattoo designs on the spine or back. Why? Tattoos in those areas are already at a higher risk for irritation and infection. While theres minimal medical data on this, some doctors have suggested that the tattoo needle could push pigmented tissue into the spinal column, leading to an infection or anomaly that could interfere with receiving the epidural. The main concerns surround new tattoos, especially those as fresh as six months or less. Because the ink isnt fixed yet, it could become displaced by the epidural needle and cause an infection.
In a similar vein, some concerns center on women who already have existing back or spinal tattoos and whether or not they can receive a proper epidural. However, according to the American Pregnancy Association, very few studies exist on the risks present for women with existing back tattoos who choose to receive an epidural. So far, these studies havent found any conclusive data that indicates there are risks, so most anesthesiologists will offer an epidural to a woman with a back tattoo.
Why You Should Wait
There are some good reasons to hold off on any new ink until after giving birth. The most important? Youre more prone to infection with a baby on board.
Up to 6 percent of people get an infection from a new tattoo, and your chances of getting one during pregnancy might be even higher since your immune system isnt working at full capacity.
A tattoo is basically a wound, and when you have broken skin, its always possible for viruses or bacteria to make their way in. In some cases, the ink itself could even be a source of microbial contaminants.
Were not just talking about run-of-the-mill skin infections that get red or pus-filled. Skin can become infected with staph or other pathogens. When youre pregnant, you may not be able to take certain medications because they can be toxic to the growing fetus, Kormeili explains.
Improperly sterilized needles could also put you and your baby at risk for serious illnesses like HIV or hepatitis B.
Infection also isnt the only issue. Some tattoo inks have been found to contain heavy metals like cadmium and lead. While theres no way to say for sure whether metals from your ink would make their way to the baby , experts do know that exposure could impair a fetuss growth and development.
Lead, for instance, interferes with the deposition of calcium into bones, potentially resulting in .
This potential risk doesnt only apply when youre pregnant, btw. Its also theoretically possible for tattoo chemicals to leach into breast milk.
Can You Get A Tattoo While Pregnant Uk
Although pregnant women should avoid getting a tattoo during pregnancy they can be reassured of the absence of proven pregnancy risks if the procedure is. Unfortunately there isnt a lot of research on pregnancy and tattoos.
Planning To Get A Tattoo Here Are The Things You Should Keep In Mind To Avoid Any Complications The Economic Times
You May Like: Laser Tattoo Removal Fort Myers
The Precautions To Take When Getting A Tattoo During Pregnancy
The usual aseptic standards need to be followed to avoid any infection, allergy, or general issues with your little one, as recommended by the American Pregnancy Association. Before starting to get inked, make sure of the following:
- The professional is certified and the center registered
- Gloves are worn by the tattoo artist
- The ink used comes in a sterilized packaging
- The floors, surfaces, and the tattoo parlor, in general, are clean
- All needles used are new and disposable.
- The gauze pads are packaged and unopened
Of course, all tattoo artists are expected to be clean and to follow these basic safety rules.
Can You Get A Tattoo In Early Pregnancy
To be safe, you should avoid getting a tattoo in early pregnancy too . Though Dr. Fahs doesnt recommend risking a tattoo at all during pregnancy, she notes its especially important to avoid it during the organogenesis stage . So just because you dont have a visible baby bump doesnt mean its safe to get a tattoo.
Recommended Reading: Can You Get A Tattoo If You Have Psoriasis
Getting Inked While Pregnant
If you want to get a tattoo while pregnant, do your research and find a reputable shop before booking an appointment. Many artists wonât tattoo on pregnant women, so be sure to inform the shop and your artist ahead of time to avoid any last-minute issues.
Here are some things to keep in mind or ask to ensure that you are getting tattooed safely:
Getting a tattoo is an important decision, and when you are pregnant, this decision can affect not only you but also your baby. Before you get a tattoo while pregnant, think about all the potential risks and find out ways you can get a tattoo safely.
Show Sources
A Temporary Tattoo: Henna
Henna is a paste made from the crushed leaves of a plant, called henna, which is grown in countries in South Asia and North Africa. The tattoos that are made from Henna are temporary and usually last between 7 and 14 days.
Henna tattoos are not harmful to pregnant women. To sum up, Henna tattoos are safe, they are long-lasting, and theyre very beautiful, making them one of the best alternatives to tattoos.
Also Check: Laser Tattoo Removal New Tattoo
Safety Tips If You Get A Tattoo While Pregnant
If you decide to get a tattoo while pregnant despite the risks, take steps to make the procedure as safe as possible.
Practices vary greatly when it comes to hygiene and infection control. And there’s no federal oversight and no government approval of tattoo inks . So it’s up to you to make sure:
- The tattoo artist is registered and practices safe tattooing methods. Requirements vary from state to state , but licensure may require tattoo artist training training in blood-borne pathogens, first aid, and CPR and an apprenticeship. Check with your local health department to find out local regulations regarding tattooing.
- The environment is clean.
- Only new or sterilized equipment is used for your procedure. Inks should be sterile and unopened. Non-disposable equipment should be heat sterilized using an autoclave.
- The artist washes his or her hands and wears a new pair of gloves before starting your procedure.
- None of the inks being used have been recalled. You can find this information on the FDA website.
- To tell the artist that you’re pregnant.
- To take good care of your tattoo. Keep it clean and moisturized. Avoid sun exposure and swimming while it’s healing. Follow any other directions you receive, and contact your healthcare provider if you think your tattoo may be infected .
Safe Tattoo Alternatives During Pregnancy
Tattoos are a way of expressing our personality, our artistic taste, and our pleasure for certain things. Leaving a permanent imprint on our skin can be a symbol of good taste and thats why so many women love them.
There are many women who want to leave an indelible memory on their skin when they get pregnant. For instance, getting inked the babys future name, his date of birth, or more. However, given the associated risks, what are the safest alternatives?
Read Also: Get Someone To Draw Your Tattoo
Can You Get Brow Microblading While Pregnant
In case youre unfamiliar, brow microblading is the use of a small tool with tiny needles to fill in brows by drawing super-fine hair strokes and depositing pigment. So, sort of like a tattoo sans the tattoo gun. Alas, when pregnant, its best to stay away from permanent makeup treatments like this, even if its just for a touch-up. Although there arent any studies on the chemicals used in microblading or their effects on pregnant women, its recommended you wait until after giving birth to play it safe. In general, stay away from stressful procedures undue stress isnt good for you or the baby.
Can Hot Water Miscarriage
Water should not be hot enough to raise your core body temperature to102°F for more than 10 minutes. Taking a bath in excessively hot water can cause several health issues like: -It may cause a drop in blood pressure, which can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients and can increase the risk of miscarriage.
You May Like: Best Water Based Lotion For Tattoos
Can You Get A Tattoo While Pregnant Or Should You Definitely Wait 9 Months
Uh, the first trimester isnt a great time.
Pregnancy is such a special, magical time for many womenand it’s also a time when lots of really fun things are out of the question .
So clearly, something big like getting a tattoo during pregnancy is off limits too…right? Turns out, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.
Does Having A Tattoo Before Pregnancy Affect Pregnancy Or Birth
Generally, back tattoos or tattoos that cross or run along the spine are of the most concern. It is worth recognizing though that according to the American Pregnancy Association, Very few studies have been done on the risks that could exist for women who have back tattoos and receive an epidural. So far none of these studies have conclusively found any data that indicates there are risks, so most anesthesiologists have no problem giving an epidural to a woman with a back tattoo. In general, if you are not experiencing an infection or reaction to a past tattoo, then there should not be any problems related to pregnancy and birth.
If you received a tattoo very close to the start of your pregnancy, just remember that it can take some time to heal which may cause some additional discomfort. Another thing that some women report is that the look of tattoos can become slightly warped as the body grows and changes throughout pregnancy. The good news is that tattoos usually return to normal in appearance some time after pregnancy ends.
You May Like: Best Antibacterial Ointment For Tattoo
Can I Get An Epidural With A Tattoo On My Back
Pregnant ladies who are wanting to get an epidural during work may stress they cant get one since they have a tattoo on their back. However, what is the reality?
We previously mentioned that getting an epidural when you have a tattoo on your back isnt the easiest task, its certainly possible.
On the off chance that you have gotten a tattoo in the previous half-year, your anesthesiologist may be somewhat more worried about giving you an epidural. This is simply because, in the first 6 months following the tattoo, the ink isnt fixed and could get pulled up by the epidural needle.
Sure, getting an epidural injection is not always needed, but most women choose to have it for pain relief.
Is It Ok To Get Tattoo While Breastfeeding
There are no regulations against breastfeeding with tattoos. The placement of tattoos does not increase any risks when breastfeeding, even if theyre on your breasts. The tattoo ink is unlikely to get into your milk supply and the ink is sealed under the first layer of your skin, so the baby cannot contact it.
Recommended Reading: Places To Get Tattoos Removed
Should You Get A Tattoo While Pregnant
We hate to be the bearer of bad news but no, tattoos are definitely something you should avoid during your 40 weeks of pregnancy. In fact, if you intend to breastfeed after your pregnancy, you should also delay your tattoo until your child weans off of you.
Although tattoos are generally safe and regulated procedures, there are numerous risks that could be involved with regards to getting a tattoo while pregnant.
How Long Do After Pregnancy Do You Need To Tait To Get A Tattoo
That is another common question asked among the tattoo-lover moms out there. Well, as a general rule of thumb, moms wait for 9 months to a year after birth to get their tattoo inked.
Given the fact that you are supposed to exclusively breastfeed your baby for the first 6 months after the birth . And that your body will get back to its normal shape and weight after a few months, getting inked after 9 months at least is a wise decision.
In any case, were confident that you will be busy enough taking care of your newborn and that these few months will pass by very quickly.
Read Also: Delete It Now Tattoo Removal
Can You Have A Tattoo Removed When You’re Pregnant
While it’s advised that you don’t get a tattoo during pregnancy, what are the rules on having a tattoo removed?
The NHS advises that you don’t have a tattoo removed if you are pregnant, either. This is because they say there is a “small risk to your baby”.
Tattoo removal is done using a laser, which breaks down the tattoo ink into tiny fragments. These are then absorbed into the bloodstream and passed out of the body. If you’re pregnant, there’s a chance that they could cross the placenta and affect your baby, so it’s best to avoid tattoo removal during pregnancy.
The same goes if you’re breastfeeding after the birth the ink fragments could get into your breastmilk, so it’s best to wait until breastfeeding is finished before having a tattoo removed.
Plus, tattoo removal can be uncomfortable and can be a very slow process, which is the last thing you want when you’ve already got pregnancy to deal with!
If you’ve already started the tattoo removal process, and have just found out you’re pregnant, try not to worry. There isn’t much evidence that it will harm your baby, and the above advice is just precautionary. Still, it’s a good idea to mention it to your midwife or GP at your routine appointments, so they can check that all is well.
We like this tattoo colouring book that’s a great way to relax during pregnancy and also get ideas for your new tattoo once you’ve had your baby!
Q: Is It Safe To Get A Tattoo While Im Pregnant
A: Getting inked has some serious risks that youâre better off avoiding while pregnant. Dirty facilities and needles can spread infections like Hepatitis B and HIV. There have also been no studies done on the effects that tattoo ink may have on your babyâs health and development. But if youâre determined to get a tattoo while youâre pregnant, do follow these tips to be as safe as possible:
â Tell the tattoo artist that youâre pregnant, so he can take extra precautions, like being certain that the tools are clean. â Wait until the second trimester when your babyâs major organs, bones, nerves, and muscles have already developed. â Make sure the tattoo artist is licensed. â Check to see that the tattoo parlor uses sterilized equipment. It should have a machine called an autoclave that cleans tattoo instruments using heat and steam. â The tattoo artist should use new, unopened gloves, bandages, dyes, and needles for each client.
Itâs also a good idea to remember that shifting hormones can cause your complexion to change a lot during pregnancy, so the tattoo you get in your sixth month could look very different after you deliver. If youâre planning to have an epidural during labor, avoid getting a tattoo on your lower back too close to your due date. Thereâs no evidence that back tattoos interfere with epidurals, but some hospitals will not give them to women whose tattoos are new or not totally healed.
Copyright 2009
You May Like: Is Laser Tattoo Removal Expensive
Stress And Pain Threshold
Pregnancy can change a womans body in many different ways. Some ways more severe than others. But aside from the typical changes that you might be used to hearing about, another change that can occur from pregnancy is a womans skin becoming more sensitive. With heightened skin sensitivity comes a heightened amount of pain. So you can imagine what that would mean if you decided to get a tattoo while pregnant. The amount of pain you would feel would be much higher especially if the tattoo is done on a part of the body that already is known to be more painful.
The increased sensitivity to pain can also result in stress on your body. Its worth mentioning that stress, no matter where it comes from, can be a significant factor in causing complications to a pregnancy. Getting a tattoo can create many reasons for increased stress whether it be from increased pain, a viral or bacterial infection, or any kind of negative reaction. So if youre considering getting a tattoo while pregnant, you should seriously reconsider it, the risk is too great.
Is It Safe To Have A Tattoo During Pregnancy
- Sometimes, people having a tattoo faint or pass out. Most tattooists wont be prepared to take the risk of a pregnant woman fainting.
- Tattoo needles are sharp and can cause a shock, more so during pregnancy as your skin can be sensitive. Unusually stressful events during pregnancy may result in premature labour. We dont know whether having a tattoo would cause this level of stress, but it’s best to play it safe.
- The tattoo ink may be partly absorbed into your body. We dont know enough about the effects the ink may have on an unborn baby.
You May Like: Best Numbing Cream For Laser Tattoo Removal