Tattooing and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

No data are available on the safety of tattooing during breastfeeding. Theoretical concerns relate to transmission of pigments or infections to the infant during breastfeeding and in the United States, blood donation is not permitted for 12 months after a tattoo as a precaution. Opinion appears to favor not obtaining a new tattoo during breastfeeding.[1-3] Tattooing of the nipple-areola area is sometimes used as part of nipple reconstruction in plastic surgery.[2,4]

Drug levels in milk and infant serum

### Summary of Use during Lactation No data are available on the safety of tattooing during breastfeeding. Theoretical concerns relate to transmission of pigments or infections to the infant during breastfeeding and in the United States, blood donation is not permitted for 12 months after a tattoo as a precaution. Opinion appears to favor not obtaining a new tattoo during breastfeeding.[1-3] Tattooing of the nipple-areola area is sometimes used as part of nipple reconstruction in plastic surgery.[2,4] ### Effects in Breastfed Infants Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date. ### Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date. ### References

Effects in breastfed infants

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects on lactation and breastmilk

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

References

1. FarleyCL Van HooverC RademeyerCA Women and tattoos: Fashion, meaning, and implications for health. J Midwifery Womens Health 2019 64 154 69 30806488 PubMed
2. KlugerN De CuyperC. A practical guide about tattooing in patients with chronic skin disorders and other medical conditions. Am J Clin Dermatol 2018 19 167 80 28993993 PubMed
3. Roche-PaullR. Body modifications and breastfeeding: What you need to know. J Hum Lact 2015 31 552 3 26185213 PubMed
4. BoccolaMA SavageJ RozenWM Surgical correction and reconstruction of the nipple-areola complex: current review of techniques. J Reconstr Microsurg 2010 26 589 600 20721849 PubMed