Can I get a tattoo while pregnant?

If you’re thinking of getting a tattoo after finding out you’re pregnant, there are a few things to bear in mind before you book that appointment.

Can I get a tattoo if I’m pregnant?

The main concern is infection, which is why it is not advisable to get a tattoo when you’re expecting a baby. Having a tattoo carries the risk of contracting blood borne viruses (BBVs) including Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and also HIV. These can be contracted from using a dirty needle and can be passed on to your baby during or after pregnancy.

Although the risks of getting infected are relatively small, the industry in the UK is unregulated meaning safety standards may vary greatly from practitioner to practitioner.

It is also not clear the effect the inks and dyes might have on a developing baby. It is also worth taking into consideration that during pregnancy the skin can react differently to the tattoo ink, even if you’ve had one before, and you may suffer an allergic reaction which can range from mild to life-threatening.

A risk of stretching

Another thing to think about, although not detrimental to your health is that during pregnancy, your body is growing and so any tattoo etched onto skin while you’re pregnant, may be subject to stretching.  This is particularly true of the arms, legs, chest and tummy areas.

Many tattooists are unwilling to take the risk of tattooing a pregnant woman. So, all things considered, waiting until your baby arrives to get a tattoo, is probably the best solution.