There are two common questions revolving around tattoos and pregnancy. One; Should I get a tattoo while pregnant, and two; what will happen to my tattoos when I become pregnant. It’s a bit of a grey area, but we’ll try our best to answer them here.
Can I get a tattoo whilst pregnant?
Well, that’s not really the right question. Of course you CAN get a tattoo, but SHOULD you get a tattoo is more pertinent. While there is no solid scientific evidence to say what happens, the overwhelming consensus is that pregnant women should avoid getting a tattoo. There’s always a worry of Hepatitis or HIV, and while in reality this is practically impossible, the concern never truly goes away. The main reason not to get a tattoo while pregnant is the chemicals in the ink. We know they may not have an effect on an adult, but we can’t tell for sure what effects they may have on a wee foetus. And when dealing with unborn children, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Any expectant mother will have no problem waiting a few months to a new tattoo.
What will happen to my tattoos during pregnancy?
Ladies, that tattoo across your abdomen may look cool now, but if you’re planning on having kids, you can expect to it change dramatically in the process. Your skin is going to change so much while pregnant, it will have an irreversible impact on the ink, which not even retouching will correct. Distortion and discolouration are the two big aspects you should know about, although there are precautions you can take. Moisturise regularly to improve the skin’s elasticity, making sure whatever oils or creams you use are safe for the baby.
At the end of the day, every woman is different, and each person’s skin will react differently to pregnancy. Those who are blessed with good skin might not even notice a difference in their tattoos a few weeks after giving birth. Others may have stretch marks that turn that portrait of Jesus into Sloth from the Goonies. Either way, you’re probably going to be too busy changing dirty nappies to worry about it!