Can You Get a Hand Tattoo While Pregnant? Facts to Know

If you’re pregnant, you already know there are a lot of rules you’re supposed to follow, like only drink one cup of coffee a day, don’t drink alcohol. But do you know can you get a hand tattoo while pregnant?

You can get a tattoo while expecting, to put it succinctly. But doctors strongly discourage pregnant people from visiting the tattoo parlor before the baby’s arrival.

To learn about the possible dangers of getting a hand tattoo while expecting, continue reading.

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Can You Get a Hand Tattoo While Pregnant?

So is it dangerous to get a tattoo while pregnant? A hand tattoo is typically permissible during pregnancy.

While getting a tattoo during pregnancy is safe, if it is not done in sterile or clean conditions, there is a chance that you could get an infection.

With a tattoo, you run the risk of contracting a number of infections.

Can You Get a Hand Tattoo While Pregnant

Hepatitis B and C

Serious liver infections with the hepatitis B and C virus types. The two viruses spread via blood. Therefore, you could contract one of those viruses if infected blood is left on a tattoo needle that has not been thoroughly cleaned before penetrating your skin.

But as of July 2022, no studies had proven that hepatitis C was spreading in authorized, commercial tattooing facilities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC doesn’t mention whether that’s also the case with hepatitis B, so it would be best to take precautions.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a different blood-borne infection that a needle may spread. Per the CDC, as of March 2022, there are no known cases of anyone in the United States contracting HIV through a tattoo needle.

Although technically impossible, it is still possible if an HIV-positive person gets a tattoo and the tattoo needle wasn’t properly sterilized. HIV infection not only puts you at risk, but it also puts the unborn child at risk.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

MRSA transmission through tattoos by unlicensed tattoo artists has reportedly been reported, according to the CDC. The bacteria from an unclean tattoo needle could be introduced on or under the skin if it is used again, spreading infection.

MRSA can enter the bloodstream and worsen if it is not treated. While MRSA cannot be transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy, it may spread to the newborn during labor and delivery.

Allergies

It’s possible to develop a contact allergy to the components of the tattoo ink, particularly the red pigments, or to the needles themselves, though this is uncommon.

How to Prepare for Getting a Tattoo?

If you choose to get a tattoo while expecting, it is crucial to make sure that it won’t cause problems for you or the fetus. You can start by researching facilities and tattoo artists, looking for licensed ones that comply with all standards and regulatory requirements. Those vary by region, so check what they are in your city and state.

Once you’ve decided where to go, you want to make sure the tattoo artist takes proper precautions, including:

Not using needles, tattoo pigments, and other equipment that have been used before
Wearing latex gloves
Using a heat sterilization machine to sterilize non-disposable equipment between customers

Consider the placement of your tattoo if you plan on receiving an epidural during delivery. No studies have conclusively demonstrated any risk associated with receiving an epidural that could go through a lower back tattoo as of December 2022.

Tattoo Aftercare

It’s crucial to keep the tattoo clean after the procedure to prevent infection. Detailed hand tattoo aftercare guidelines should be given to you by your tattoo artist, who should also be reachable in case of issues.

The dangers and inconveniences of getting a tattoo while pregnant have convinced many women to postpone getting new ink until after the baby is born. Make sure to double-check everything against the safety list if you do decide to proceed with getting a tattoo.

Bottom Line: Can You Get a Hand Tattoo While Pregnant

While no organization overtly recommends against getting a tattoo while pregnant, we advised against it. You could have a slight chance of getting sick or having an allergic reaction. Both of those outcomes are potentially harmful or can unnecessarily complicate your pregnancy.

If you get a tattoo during pregnancy, take precautions to stay safe. Verify that your tattoo artist is using fresh equipment, visiting a licensed establishment, and wearing gloves.

Can You Get a Tiny Tattoo While Pregnant?

Although the risk is small, it is recommended that you wait to get a tattoo until after your baby is born.

What Happens If You Get Tattooed While Pregnant?

One of the main risks of being tattooed is the chance of an infection.

Can Pregnancy Irritate Tattoos?

During pregnancy, your skin is more sensitive to pain, and it’s also more easily irritated.

Can You Get a Hand Tattoo While Pregnant? Facts to Know

Can You Get a Hand Tattoo While Pregnant?