Tattoos are a beautiful form of self-expression, but if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you may be wondering: Is it safe to get a tattoo right now?
The short answer: Most professionals and medical experts strongly recommend waiting until after pregnancy and breastfeeding are over before getting tattooed. While there’s no absolute law against it, there are important safety concerns to consider.
Why Tattooing During Pregnancy Is Risky
Tattooing involves breaking the skin with needles to insert ink. For healthy adults, this is generally safe when done in a professional studio. But during pregnancy, risks increase.
Key concerns include:
- Infections: A tattoo in an unsterile environment could expose you (and your baby) to bloodborne diseases like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or HIV.
- Weakened Immunity: Pregnant women naturally have altered immune systems, making infection risks more dangerous.
- Ink Chemicals: Tattoo ink ingredients are not fully regulated, and the effects of pigment particles entering the bloodstream during pregnancy are not well studied.
- Healing Stress: The body is already working hard during pregnancy—healing a tattoo adds extra strain.
- Discomfort & Pain: Pain and stress during a tattoo session may impact both mother and baby.
What Experts and Studios Say
- Medical Professionals: Most doctors advise waiting until after pregnancy.
- Tattoo Artists: Many reputable studios refuse to tattoo pregnant clients to avoid legal and health risks.
- Tattoo Associations: International safety guidelines generally caution against tattooing during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding and Tattoos
Once your baby is born, can you get tattooed while breastfeeding? The answer is a little more flexible—but still cautious.
Concerns include:
- Ink Transfer Risk: There’s no strong evidence that tattoo ink passes into breast milk. However, since ink particles enter the bloodstream, some experts advise waiting.
- Infection Risk: If you develop an infection from your tattoo, the treatment (like antibiotics) may affect breastfeeding.
- Pain and Stress: Long sessions can be exhausting during early motherhood.
Many studios allow breastfeeding clients if they’re healthy, but medical experts often recommend waiting until you’ve weaned your baby.
Safer Alternatives During Pregnancy
If you’re craving body art while pregnant:
- Henna Tattoos (Natural): Safe if pure henna is used (avoid black henna—it contains toxic chemicals).
- Temporary Tattoos: Skin-safe stickers or airbrush tattoos are fun alternatives.
- Planning Ahead: Use pregnancy time to research designs and artists for after your baby arrives.
When Is It Safe Again?
- After Pregnancy: Safest to wait until after delivery.
- While Breastfeeding: Ideally, wait until you’ve finished breastfeeding. If you choose to tattoo while nursing, ensure it’s in a licensed, sterile studio and discuss it with your doctor first.
FAQs About Tattoos, Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can tattoo ink harm my unborn baby?
Research is limited, but since ink particles travel into the bloodstream, the risk cannot be ruled out.
Are small tattoos safer during pregnancy?
No. The risks of infection and ink exposure apply to all tattoo sizes.
Can I get a tattoo touch-up while breastfeeding?
Most studios recommend waiting until you’re done nursing to be 100% safe.
What about permanent makeup (eyebrows, eyeliner) while pregnant?
Permanent makeup is also a tattoo procedure and carries the same risks.
Are henna tattoos safe while pregnant?
Yes, if pure natural henna is used. Avoid black henna.
Final Thoughts
So, can you get a tattoo if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Pregnant: Strongly discouraged—wait until after delivery.
- Breastfeeding: Possible in some cases, but still risky. Best to wait until after nursing for maximum safety.
Tattoos last a lifetime—there’s no need to rush during such an important stage of life. Prioritize your health and your baby’s safety, and book that appointment when the time is right.