Can You Get a Tattoo While Breastfeeding?

Okay, let’s get real—being a new mom comes with about a zillion questions. And if you’re like me, you’ve probably stared at your baby in awe, then caught sight of your old tattoo in the mirror and thought, “Hmm, is it safe to add another piece of ink now?”

Whether you’re craving some fresh body art, thinking about tattoo removal while breastfeeding, or just wondering how your current ink holds up during this wild season of motherhood, this article is for you.

So, can you get a tattoo while breastfeeding? Let’s spill the (breastmilk-safe) tea on that.

Why Moms Ask: Tattoos & Breastfeeding Basics

If you’re here, you’ve likely Googled this at 2 a.m. while cradling your little one. You’re not alone—this question is super common, and for good reason.

Breastfeeding isn’t just feeding your baby; it’s a full-time gig that makes you hyper-aware of everything going into or onto your body. So naturally, the thought of needles, ink, and possible infections sets off those new mom alarm bells.

Let’s break it down.

Is It Safe to Get a Tattoo While Breastfeeding?

The Short Answer: It’s Complicated

Technically, there’s no official medical ban on getting a tattoo while breastfeeding. But—and it’s a big but—it isn’t without risks.

Why? Because when you get a tattoo, you’re introducing ink into your dermis (the second layer of skin). While the ink molecules generally stay put, there’s always a chance of:

• Infection (if sterile procedures aren’t followed)
• Allergic reactions (yes, even to tattoo ink)
• Compromised healing (your immune system is a little more “preoccupied” postpartum)

And guess what? If you do get an infection or need medication afterward (like antibiotics), it could impact your breastmilk.

So while it’s not strictly forbidden, many reputable tattoo artists won’t ink nursing moms, just to stay on the safe side. And honestly? That’s probably a smart move.

What Do Experts Say?

Most medical professionals err on the side of caution. While no conclusive studies prove tattoo ink transfers into breastmilk, the risk lies more in what could go wrong post-tattoo.

According to La Leche League and other breastfeeding advocates:

“Wait until you are no longer breastfeeding to minimize any potential risk to your infant.”

So while there’s no need to panic if you already have tattoos, getting a new one while breastfeeding might not be the move right now.

The Real Risk: Infections & Tattoo Studios

Think Before You Ink

Wanna know the biggest threat of getting a tattoo while breastfeeding? It’s not the ink. It’s the potential for infection.

Infections can lead to serious complications like:

• Fever
• Sepsis
• Need for medications that may pass into breastmilk

Not to mention, not all tattoo parlors are created equal. Here’s what to check before even considering inking up:

• Is the artist certified and licensed?
• Is everything single-use or properly sterilized?
• Do they follow bloodborne pathogen procedures?

If the answer isn’t a resounding “YES,” then it’s a no from me, dawg.

So, when can you get a Tattoo?

Post-Breastfeeding Freedom

If you’re dreaming of that postpartum body art celebration, the safest bet is to wait until your baby is weaned. That way:

• Your immune system is stronger
• You’re not worried about medications affecting milk
• Healing is simpler (because chasing a toddler is already enough work)

You might be wondering: “What about a tattoo after pregnancy but before weaning?” That’s a gray area. If your baby is older and you’re down to occasional feeds, you might feel comfortable moving ahead. Just consult your doctor first, okay?

What About Tattoo Removal While Breastfeeding?

Ah, yes, the other side of the coin.

Breastfeeding and Tattoo Removal: Is It Safe?

Laser tattoo removal uses concentrated light to break up the ink particles under your skin. While there’s no strong evidence that these broken-down particles enter breastmilk, the procedure itself can be a bit rough:

• Skin irritation
• Risk of infection
• Use of topical numbing creams (some contain lidocaine—not safe for nursing)

So again, while tattoo removal while breastfeeding isn’t outright banned, most dermatologists recommend waiting until after weaning.

FYI: If you’re planning breastfeeding after tattoo removal, make sure your skin has healed and no meds or creams are still active.

Microblading While Breastfeeding: Yay or Nay?

Let’s take a detour into microblading, since it’s basically a semi-permanent tattoo for your brows.

So, can you get microblading while breastfeeding?

Well, microblading does involve breaking the skin (tiny, tiny cuts filled with pigment), so the same rules apply:

• Risk of infection? Yes
• Possible allergic reaction? Absolutely
• Numbing creams involved? Likely

Most reputable estheticians will also suggest waiting until after breastfeeding, not just for safety, but because hormonal changes during breastfeeding can affect how pigment settles into your skin. Your brows might not turn out the way you hoped.

Are Tattoos Permanent While Breastfeeding?

Here’s something interesting: hormonal changes can mess with your skin’s texture and how it responds to ink.

So technically, yes, tattoos are permanent, but the quality and clarity of your new tattoo might be impacted by:

• Skin elasticity (hello, postpartum body changes)
• Hydration levels
• Immune response (aka healing speed)

So if you’re asking, “Are tattoos permanent while breastfeeding?” the short answer is yes—but maybe not in the way you’d expect.

Pros & Cons: Getting a Tattoo While Breastfeeding

Pros

• You might find an artist willing to do it
• If you’re in great health, risks may be minimal
• Tattoo itself doesn’t directly affect breastmilk

Cons

• Infection risk = real
• Many artists will refuse
• Healing might take longer
• Potential complications with medication
• Tattoo outcome might vary due to hormones

Want That Ink? Here’s What You Can Do Instead

Can’t get a tattoo just yet? Here are some fun alternatives to scratch the itch:

• Temporary tattoos – Custom designs are a vibe these days
• Henna – Natural, safe, and can last up to 2 weeks
• Body paint – Great for photo shoots or special events
• Tattoo planning – Use this time to perfect your design idea

Trust me—your forever tattoo will mean even more when you’ve waited for the right moment to get it.

When You’re Finally Ready: Tips for Post-Breastfeeding Tattooing

Once your nursing journey is over and you’re ready to get inked, keep this checklist handy:

1. Choose a reputable artist with experience working on postpartum bodies
2. Drink water—lots of it. Hydrated skin = better results
3. Avoid alcohol or caffeine before your appointment (they thin the blood)
4. Eat beforehand—seriously, don’t go in hungry
5. Know your healing schedule—you’ll need downtime, especially if the tattoo is large

And most importantly? Celebrate the moment. You’ve been through pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding—you deserve this.

Final Thoughts: Ink Now or Later?

So, can you get a tattoo while breastfeeding? The answer is: you technically can, but you probably shouldn’t.

Why risk an infection, a wonky result, or a complicated healing process when you can wait a few months and do it safely?

Besides, there’s something kind of poetic about getting a tattoo after pregnancy—a physical symbol of your transformation, your strength, and maybe even your baby’s birthdate (cliché, but always cute).

Take your time. Plan your dream ink. And when the moment’s right? Go get that tattoo like the badass mom you are.

Thinking about getting inked after weaning? Got a fun design idea? Or maybe you’re looking into laser tattoo removal options post-baby? Let’s chat in the comments—because ink, just like parenting, is better shared.