- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- babies today articles
- babies today q&a
- toddlers today articles
- toddlers today q&a
- breastfeed.com articles
- breastfeed.com q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Ann Calandro BSN, RNC, IBCLC Lactation Consultant | ||
 |
I was just wondering if it is safe to get a tattoo while I am nursing my son? I would like to get a small tattoo in memory of my first son. I have never gotten a tattoo, and I just want to make sure that I will not be harming my nursing baby. I am exclusively nursing."
There are no known contraindications to the inks used in tattoos and breastfeeding. The inks remain under the skin and are not absorbed into the system.
There may be concerns about local infections and the theoretical risk of systemic infections such as hepatitis and HIV from the needles used to make tattoos. HIV, of course, is a risk to babies especially if the mother gets the infection while breastfeeding. The American Red Cross does not allow people who get tattoos to give blood for a year after the tattooing due to the risk of infections such as hepatitis and HIV.
It would be your choice on this, of course. You might consider waiting until after your baby is weaned before you decide to get a tattoo to honor the memory of your ""angel baby."" I wish you and your family well."
Related Expert Q&A
More Answers by this Expert
- My breasts are so large now, I am worried I will smother my baby if I try to breastfeed. Also, will my breasts return to their former size?
- Is it necessary to give multi-vitamin supplements to a breastfed baby? Doesn't Mother's milk provide all the nutrients a baby needs?
- Are there any laws in effect that hinder women from breastfeeding in public?
- What are an employer's legal responsibilities and duties for breastfeeding and/or pumping at work?
- I am pregnant, and my nipples are like a faucet, particularly when I'm sleeping. Is this normal?