Can I get a tattoo or piercing while breastfeeding?

Can You Get a Tattoo or Piercing While Breastfeeding?
As new mothers navigate the complexities of postpartum life, many find themselves contemplating personal choices that reflect their identity, such as getting a tattoo or a piercing. However, the question arises: is it safe to pursue these body modifications while breastfeeding?
Tattoos and Breastfeeding: A Cautious Approach
When it comes to tattoos, the consensus among health professionals leans towards caution. Many experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers should wait until they have fully weaned their child before getting a tattoo. This advice stems from several considerations, primarily related to the healing process and potential risks involved. The skin undergoes significant changes during and after pregnancy, and getting a tattoo can introduce risks of infection, which could indirectly affect breastfeeding if complications arise.
Moreover, the healing process of a tattoo requires diligent care to prevent infection. If a mother were to develop an infection, it could lead to complications that might impact her ability to care for her baby. Therefore, while the act of tattooing itself does not directly affect breast milk production, the associated risks make it advisable to postpone this decision until after breastfeeding.
Piercings: A Different Story
On the other hand, when it comes to piercings, particularly nipple piercings, the guidance is somewhat more lenient. Experts indicate that getting a piercing while breastfeeding is generally considered safe. A nipple or areola piercing does not affect milk production, although it is essential to be cautious about potential choking hazards associated with nipple jewelry.
However, many professionals still advise against getting new piercings during breastfeeding. The rationale is similar to that for tattoos: the healing process requires careful attention, and any complications could pose risks to both the mother and the baby.
Health Considerations and Expert Advice
For mothers considering either tattoos or piercings, it is crucial to consult with healthcare providers, especially if there are underlying health conditions that could complicate the healing process. Conditions such as blood clotting disorders or autoimmune diseases may necessitate additional precautions.
In summary, while piercings may be permissible, particularly if they are not in the nipple area, tattoos are best postponed until after breastfeeding. This approach ensures that mothers can prioritize their health and the well-being of their infants during this critical time. As always, personal choices should be made with careful consideration and professional guidance.

Why do they say not to get tattoo while breastfeeding?

The Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health advises against pregnant or breastfeeding moms getting tattooed. And while there is no evidence to suggest a newly tattooed mom’s breast milk poses a risk to her baby, the possibility of mom contracting an infection is a major area of concern.

What cannot you do while breastfeeding?

What foods and drinks should I limit or avoid while breastfeeding?

• Alcohol. There’s no level of alcohol in breast milk that’s considered safe for a baby.
• Caffeine. Avoid drinking more than 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) of caffeinated drinks a day.
• Fish. Seafood can be a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Can I get Botox while breastfeeding?

Limited studies suggest the procedure isn’t harmful. But because it is still unclear whether or not Botox® toxins can spread to a nursing child through breast milk or impact unborn babies during pregnancy, we recommend avoiding Botox® therapy during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

How soon after giving birth can I get a tattoo?

If you’re breastfeeding or not, and how you, yourself, are feeling. If you decide to breastfeed then it’s advisable to wait 9-12 months after birth before getting a tattoo. But if you aren’t breastfeeding then you can get tattooed as soon as you feel ready.”

Can you get tattoos and piercings while breastfeeding?

It is not recommended to get piercings or tattoos while breastfeeding and most shops won’t do it anyway. The hormones necessary to support lactation can affect the healing of the piercing and infection is always a concern.

Is piercing not allowed in nursing?

Whether or not nurses can have ear piercings often depends on the policies of the healthcare facility where they work. Some hospitals and clinics may have strict dress code policies that prohibit visible piercings, while others may allow certain types of piercings as long as they are subtle and not distracting.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

How long after giving birth can I get a piercing?

3 months
We suggest waiting at least 3 months after delivery of your child to allow your body to recover from pregnancy and childbirth and to allow your immune system to return to normal. For nipple piercings, you should wait three months following the cessation of breast milk production.

Do you have to take your piercings out to breastfeed?

And even if your jewelry stays put, it could damage your baby’s mouth tissue. Your safest bet is to remove your jewelry while feeding. Although it’s not recommended, if you do choose to reinsert your nipple jewelry after each breastfeeding session, it’s extremely important to keep everything clean.