What if I got a tattoo and I didn't know I was pregnant?

If you got a tattoo before knowing you were pregnant, there’s usually no need to panic. Most inks aren’t proven to harm the baby, but watch for infections and consult a doctor if needed.

Can I get a tattoo removal while breastfeeding?

No, it is not recommended to remove a tattoo while breastfeeding. The laser breaks down ink particles, which could enter breast milk and affect the baby.

Is It Safe To Get A Tattoo During Pregnancy?

Getting a tattoo is exciting, right? It’s a way to show who you are, celebrate a moment, or just express yourself in a way words can’t. But if you’re pregnant, things get a bit more complicated. Suddenly, it’s not just about you anymore; there’s a tiny life depending on you. It’s completely natural to feel torn between wanting to express yourself and wanting to protect your little one.

Why Getting a Tattoo During Pregnancy Might Not Be Safe

When you’re pregnant, your body is already working extra hard to protect you and your baby. So getting a tattoo during this time can bring some added risks.

This is why doctors usually recommend waiting until after your baby is born:

Risk of Infections

Getting a tattoo means tiny needles are puncturing your skin to insert ink, which basically creates a small wound. If the tools or ink aren’t completely clean, bacteria or viruses can enter your body. These can range from mild skin irritation to more serious problems that might need medical treatment.

Blood-Borne Diseases

If the tattoo artist uses unsterile needles, there’s a chance of catching serious diseases like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV. These viruses spread through contaminated blood and can also be passed to your baby during pregnancy or at birth.

Tattoo Ink Concerns

Tattoo ink might look harmless, but it often contains heavy metals like mercury, lead, and arsenic. When these enter your bloodstream, they could reach your baby, too. This can be more dangerous during the early months of pregnancy when your baby’s organs and brain are forming.

Skin Sensitivity and Pain

During pregnancy, your skin becomes more delicate and sensitive due to hormonal changes. This means that getting a tattoo could be more painful than usual. The area might swell, feel sore for longer, or even react differently to the ink.

Safety Tips If You Still Want a Tattoo During Pregnancy

It’s safest to wait until after pregnancy to get a tattoo. But if you’re set on getting one now, you can take steps to make it as safe as possible:

Pick a clean and licensed studio that has a good reputation. Read reviews online or ask people you trust about their experiences.
The tattoo artist should always use brand-new, single-use needles and sealed ink containers. Also, the artist should wear fresh gloves during your session and change them if they touch anything else.
Not all tattoo inks are safe. Some contain heavy metals, which can be harmful during pregnancy. Ask to see the ink labels or ingredient list, and avoid anything that seems unclear or has been recalled for safety reasons.
It’s best not to get tattoos on your belly, hips, or breasts while pregnant. These areas stretch a lot as your body grows, which can distort the design later.
Keep the tattoo clean, dry, and lightly moisturised as it heals.

Is It Safe to Get a Tattoo While Breastfeeding?

It’s also best to avoid getting a tattoo while you’re breastfeeding. The risks are similar to those during pregnancy, and your baby’s health is still closely linked to yours.

An infection from a tattoo could spread through your body and potentially affect your baby through breast milk. Even though the risk is low, it’s safer not to take the chance while you’re nursing.

What Are Safe Alternatives to Tattoos During Pregnancy?

There are still some fun and creative alternatives you can try if you love the idea of body art but want to stay safe:

Henna tattoos: Natural henna is a great temporary option. It’s made from plant dye that stains your skin in shades of orange, red, or brown and usually lasts one to four weeks. Just make sure it’s real henna, not black henna. Black henna contains a harmful chemical called para-phenylenediamine (PPD) that can cause burns or blisters.
Temporary tattoos: If you just want to enjoy the look of a tattoo without any long-term commitment, try temporary tattoos. They’re easy to apply, safe, and fade on their own after a few days. It’s a fun way to test out different designs or placements before getting a real one later.
Plan for later: You can also use this time to plan your dream tattoo. Research experienced artists, look for studios with high safety standards, and refine your design ideas.

Getting a tattoo during pregnancy or breastfeeding isn’t the best idea because of the risks of infections, blood-borne diseases, and unknown effects of tattoo ink on your baby. Your body is already working hard during this time, so it’s best to wait until it’s fully recovered.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Is It Safe To Get A Tattoo During Pregnancy?

What if I got a tattoo and I didn't know I was pregnant?
If you got a tattoo before knowing you were pregnant, there’s usually no need to panic. Most inks aren’t proven to harm the baby, but watch for infections and consult a doctor if needed.
Can I get a tattoo removal while breastfeeding?
No, it is not recommended to remove a tattoo while breastfeeding. The laser breaks down ink particles, which could enter breast milk and affect the baby.