When it comes to getting a tattoo while breastfeeding or chestfeeding, it’s a subject that’s shrouded in uncertainty due to a lack of extensive research. However, experts tend to err on the side of caution and generally discourage getting a new tattoo while you’re breastfeeding. Here’s what you need to consider:
Is it Safe?
- Infection Risk: The primary concern is the risk of infection during the tattoo process, especially from blood-borne pathogens like HIV and hepatitis B. If you contract an infection, there’s a potential to transmit it to your baby through your milk or an open cut on your skin. The risk of transmission for well-managed HIV is about 1%, but it’s generally considered low.
- Antibiotics: If you acquire a bacterial infection after getting a tattoo, you may need antibiotics. While most antibiotics are safe for breastfeeding, it’s crucial to discuss with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Ink in Breast Milk: There’s limited research on whether tattoo ink can get into breast milk. Recent studies suggest that tattoo ink contains extremely small particles, which are tiny enough to get into body cell membranes and theoretically could affect breast milk. However, this is an area with limited data.
How Long to Wait: You might wonder if you should wait after getting a tattoo to nurse your baby. According to experts, it’s best not to get a tattoo at any point while breastfeeding, whether you’re nursing an infant or a toddler, due to the lack of safety information regarding tattoos and breastfeeding.
Tattoo Removal: Laser tattoo removal works by breaking down ink particles that are then absorbed into the lymphatic system to be removed from the body. Due to the lack of research on whether these particles pass into breast milk, it’s recommended to wait until your baby is weaned to get a tattoo removed.
In the end, the decision to get a tattoo while breastfeeding is a personal one. It’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider, such as an OB-GYN or midwife, who can provide guidance based on your individual circumstances. While there’s no definitive answer, being cautious and waiting until your child has stopped nursing is a safe option to consider.