I am very fond of art at a very young age; I always admire tattoos as one of its variety.
When I was in college, I got my first tattoo inked on my rib cage, and it was before I got pregnant with my first child.
It was followed with another one inked at my back and got my third piece three years after-approximately four months after giving birth to Minyong.
The most recent one is this orchid tattoo on my right wrist, which I had before getting pregnant to my second child.
Last night, I got it retouched and colored by Loy Cabigting of We are Ink.
One of the most frequent questions I get is “IF A MOM CAN BREASTFEED EVEN IF SHE HAD TATTOOS, or IF ONE CAN GET A TATTOO WHILE BREASTFEEDING?”
Base on several research, it is safe for a nursing mom to get a tattoo. Also, no research exists that provides contrary evidence of breastfeeding and getting tattooed.
Molecules from tattoo inks are too large to make it into breast milk. This means that even though the ink is being put into your skin, it will not pass through the breastmilk to your baby. The needle is inserted into your skin, only reaches the second layer of your skin, known as the dermal layer.
However, it’s best to keep in mind that getting a tattoo generally carries risks, especially if you’re getting one for the first time. Some of which are:
📍Having an allergic reaction to the inks.
📍Getting a skin infection like irritation, itching, redness, or pus on or near your tattoo.
📍Contracting a blood infection like HIV, hepatitis C, tetanus, or MRSA.
For moms, please note that complications following tattoo application can require treatments that may not be compatible with breastfeeding. Thus, only get your tattoos from reputable tattoo shops.
Also, before deciding to get one, please do your research. Keep in mind that right decisions are made if you’re well informed.
Allow me to share my tattoo experience and a few tips if you’d wish to get your skin inked.
1. Before getting a tattoo, make sure that you’re getting it from a licensed tattoo facility with a good reputation. The license should be hanging up for all to see. In my case, it was visible upon entering Loy’s shop. Also, consider knowing your tattoo artist. I have known Loy through Kate, my previous officemate. Loy is Kate’s husband. My closest relatives and friends also recommended him and his wife. Before starting, I also asked Loy what type of ink he’ll be using, and where he gets it. It’s best to ask these types of questions in case you’ll get an allergic reaction.
2. Your tattoo artist should use clean and sterile materials. Loy showed us that the needles he uses were freshly out of the packaging, his gun was inside a clean container, and he was using gloves and sterile materials. The inks he used was also in its little boxes. They also made sure to cover the tattoo after the session.
3. If you decide to tag the baby during the session, make sure to let the artist know. It’s also best to let the baby feed and had enough sleep so he won’t be fussy later on. You can also have someone with you to attend to him to make sure he won’t cause any sudden movement while getting a tattoo. If you can, it’s best to leave the baby at home, especially if the session would only take an hour or two. Also, consider if your artist we’ll be comfortable to take breaks whenever you need to breastfeed your child. Gladly, Loy and his wife Kate accommodated our whole family while I’m getting my tattoo.
4. Follow the after-care guidelines and research online. Keeping your tattoo site clean is very necessary, so you’d avoid getting an infection, and it will heal nicely. The tattoo will eventually feel itchy a few days after getting it; please avoid scratching the site. I’ve learned this the hard way. My first tattoo faded quickly.
5. Be mindful of the placement of your tattoo. Keep in mind that it takes 2 to 3 weeks for your tattoo to heal. For moms, consider getting on a site where the baby won’t be able to rub it, or won’t be a hindrance when you’re carrying him. I thought to put it my right wrist so it can be seen easily when I’m doing a wrap demonstration. My left hand is also more prominent than the right. I can still move and attend to my two kids comfortably.
Getting another one was an easier decision for me. WE ARE INK assured that I would have my full confidence when getting it. I was so happy with the outcome and the whole experience. It wasn’t just a typical tattoo session but a family bonding experience. It made the tattoo a lot meaningful.
You can message Loy and Kate through their Facebook page We Are Ink if you’d like to get your tattoo. They are located at Door 10
10 MRFC Building, Lopez Jaena St. Davao City.
Dabawenya Mommy 