Dr. Marjorie Greenfield
Specializing in pregnancy and birth.
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 Ask Dr. Greenfield
Tattoos during Pregnancy | | | QUESTION | | | Dear Dr. Greenfield,
I miscarried two months ago and have continued with my pre-natal vitamins because we are trying to get pregnant again. My doctor said I was OK to start trying again. My question is: I want to get a small tattoo on my ankle to remember my lost baby. Is this safe while I am trying to conceive? Should I wait until after my next pregnancy?— Concerned Mom-To-Be | | | ANSWER |
May 9, 2001 | | | Dear Mom-To-Be,
I am so glad you wrote in your question before going ahead with the tattoo. While it is a lovely thought to do something to remember your lost baby, there are real health risks to tattoos (whether you are pregnant or not) including hepatitis and HIV. Both of these infections are not only a risk to a baby while you are pregnant, but put future babies and even your life at risk as well.
If you are set on getting a tattoo, wait until after you are done having children, and be sure to find a place that does not reuse the needles or the ink.
I hope that you can think of some other way to memorialize your baby, like planting a tree or donating some money to a charity. Take good care of yourself, your memories, and your future family. — by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D. |
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