Sunbeds during pregnancy

Pregnancy and Tan Beds

Being pregnant can become extremely mystifying as to what you can and cannot do.

- Should you eat this ?
- Can you eat that ?
- Am I supposed to do this ?
- Am I allowed to do that ?
- Should I carry on or give up this ?
- How about this ?

..............the list and questions go on and on and on.

Many people enjoy sun beds to achieve that all year round tan and depending on who you speak to, there is a mismatch of information as to should you carry on when pregnant or not.

However lets be realistic, UVA and UVB rays are known to damage your skin and the list of possible problems range right up to an increased risk of malignant melanoma with over use.

However there is no full evidence that the rays penetrate deep enough to affect the unborn child even though some salons quite often require you to bring along a Doctors note before they will allow you to use their facilities.

As with most things if you are not sure about it, and you have to ask the question 'Will it harm baby or not ? ' ........ its probably safer not to do it as is it 'really' worth the risk ?

It is safe to say that most medical staff (including midwives) recommend not to use sun beds during your pregnancy, but if you absolutely must, keep it to a minimum.

The main reason it is not recommended is that with pregnant women who use them too much, it could lead to a deficiency of folic acid. Folic acid is available in tablet form or just by eating increased levels of broccoli and spinach.

The other reason being that expectant mothers are advised against over heating and to avoid the Sauna and very hot baths. Sunbeds could cause you to overheat.

As mentioned above, if you are not sure it might be better to avoid it for the time being. Is it really worth the risk ? You should always raise concerns with your midwife or doctor if you are not sure.




4little1s.com is an online nursery retailer located at www.4little1s.com