Should You Use a Tanning Bed While Pregnant?

Many women wonder whether it's safe to use a tanning bed while pregnant - and sadly the answer isn't entirely straight forward!

Most obstetricians say that the UV rays won't penetrate far enough to harm the baby but that the biggest risk is that of raising your body temperature, especially during the last trimester. This doesn't just apply to a tanning bed: it's the same advice for hot tubs, saunas and even bathing at home. Temperatures of 20 degrees and above can harm the unborn baby. Most sun beds have fans to keep them cool but it's hard to know how much your temperature may be elevated by the end of a session, especially as it climbs gradually. Many women prefer not to risk it.

The other factor to consider before you use a tanning bed while pregnant is the effects on your skin. We all know about the skin cancer risk and sadly many of us have known someone who died prematurely from an undetected melanoma. There is also a less life threatening but nevertheless disturbing risk: cholasma. During pregnancy, the hormones in your system make you more prone to the condition known as cholasma, a blotchy pigmentation of your skin triggered by exposure to UV rays. This is also unflatteringly known as the racoon look, as the area that is most susceptible is the 'mask' area on your face.

If you do decide to use a tanning bed while pregnant it's strongly suggested you follow these safety guidelines:

Consult your obstetrician first and get his/her advice
Only use modern equipment up to full safety standards
Never allow yourself to get overheated
Drink plenty of water. You start to dehydrate long before the thirst mechanism kicks in, so you have to make a point of drinking lots of fluids before you start tanning and afterwards as well.
Use a top quality skin protection cream with a high SPF factor. It won't stop you tanning, it'll make sure you don't cook your hide! You may have beautiful, smooth skin now but you only have to look around to see how many older women have overdone the tanning and now have skin like an old boot. Don't let it be you!

Many women decide to forego tanning whilst they are pregnant and use one of the excellent fake tans that are on the market or go for the 'pale and beautiful' look that so many top models favour these days. Whatever you choose, the important thing is to have an enjoyable pregnancy and a healthy, happy baby at the end of it!

To return Home from Tanning Bed While Pregnant click here