3 Things To Understand About Getting A Tattoo While Breastfeeding
There are many myths circulating about getting tattoos while breastfeeding a child. Generally, tattoos are a safe procedure that will not harm you or your breastfeeding infant. However, there are some things you should be aware of before you choose to get a tattoo while breastfeeding.
Your Baby Is Not At Additional Risk
As a mother, it is common to be concerned about the substances entering your child's body through your breast milk. Many mothers are concerned that their child will be harmed or poisoned if the mother gets a tattoo. In the past, concerns regarding the safety of the infant were around blood-borne diseases such as hepatitis and HIV. However, since the tattoo industry has advanced in safety measures in recent history, this is less of a concern. As long as you go to a studio where the artist follows standard hygiene procedures, neither you nor your baby is at high risk of catching a blood-borne infection. You should also be aware that the ink does not seep into your breast milk as some mothers fear.
There May Be Some Additional Lightening As Your Hormones Shift
The main concern with getting a tattoo while breastfeeding is the quality of the tattoo. Some women experience large hormone shifts until they finish their breastfeeding relationship. This can cause changes in your skin and the ink may not take as well as it does for women who are not breastfeeding. This means your tattoo may fade sooner. You can prevent this by following proper care instructions and keeping the tattoo covered when you are in direct sunlight. However, at the end of your breastfeeding relationship, you may want to get a touch up on the tattoo to keep it vibrant for several more years.
Changes In Breast Tissue Throughout Breastfeeding Make Tattoos In that Region Unadvised
Another issue with tattoos while breastfeeding is placement. If you plan to get a tattoo on or around your breast, it is best to wait until you are done breastfeeding. Your breasts will continue to change in size until several months after you finish breastfeeding. This can cause shifting of the skin on the breast, chest, or side, which can pull and distort the shape of the tattoo. If you want a tattoo in one of these areas, it is best to wait until you are done breastfeeding altogether, and you may want to wait until you are done having children.
Contact a studio, like Evil and Love Tattoo, for help.
