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Are Tanning Beds Safe for Baby & Mom During Pregnancy

Most women hope that they are lucky enough to get the “mother's glow” during pregnancy. Unfortunately, some women may actually develop skin problems when they get pregnant, such as acne, blemishes and oily skin. If you happen to be one of them, you may be tempted to try tanning beds during pregnancy, just to have the sun-kissed look work its wonder for your looks and your (probably low) self-esteem. However, before you decide to get an artificial or even a natural tan, do consider the effects it could have on your pregnancy and your baby.

Are tanning beds safe during pregnancy?

No, they are not and therefore, it is best to avoid using tanning beds completely, during the course of pregnancy. There are no controlled studies to determine the direct effects of tanning beds on an unborn baby. However, the risk factors of a tanning bed during pregnancy cannot be ignored. Moreover, while the tanning bed may not necessarily have a harmful effect on your baby, but there is ample evidence to prove that a tanning bed could be dangerous for you!

If you are accustomed to acquiring a tan quite often, you are probably aware of how dangerous the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can be. A tanning booth or bed emits the exact same rays, which are hazardous to your health. Visiting a tanning booth once a month for a year can double your risks of developing melanoma, one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer. Unfortunately, melanoma is the only type of cancer that can spread to your placenta. This could be disastrous for you, as well as your unborn baby.

Another factor you need to bear in mind is that lying in a tanning bed can cause your body temperature to rise significantly. This could be hazardous to your baby, especially, if it occurs in the first trimester. An elevated body temperature of more than 102 degrees F in pregnancy could lead to spinal malformation in the unborn baby.

Yet another downside to the use of a tanning bed is an increased risk of developing chloasma, a condition that occurs in pregnant women. This skin condition is characterized by the appearance of dark splotches on the face and the arms. Lying down on a tanning bed on your back for a long time could also restrict your blood flow to your heart and your baby.

Some dermatologists may advise you to go in for a self-tanner during pregnancy, claiming that the ingredients are harmless. However, these tanners contain dyes that stay on the surface of your skin and could trigger off other skin problems that you never experienced before.

Therefore, it is best for you to follow the right steps on skin care during pregnancy. Given below are a few tips that may be useful -

• Avoid getting a tan (natural or artificial) when you are pregnant
• Stay indoors during the peak hours of the sun, so that your skin is not exposed to the harsh UV rays
• Apply a branded and good sunscreen whenever you go out in the hot sun
• Go for a walk in the early-morning sun, as it provides your skin with Vitamin D, without causing any harm

In case you notice darkening of your skin during pregnancy, or any other skin changes, it may be a good idea to consult your doctor.

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