“I have heard various opinions on the subject of getting tattooed while still breastfeeding. I have a 16-month-old daughter who still nurses on demand and want to get a tattoo on my forearm. Is there a possibility this could hurt my daughter? “
The ink used for tattoos will be safe, as it primarily stays in the skin and does not get into the circulation. HOWEVER, the needles used for the tattoo will pose a very small risk of transmitting hepatitis C. Recent research shows that a larger, multi-colored tattoo poses a higher risk than small black tattoos. Another study showed that the risk of contracting hepatitis is actually higher during a dentist visit than while getting a tattoo, so this subject remains controversial. My thoughts are: before you permanently alter your body, imagine what this tattoo would look like on your Grandmother… because some day that is how you will look!
Dr. Jim