Tanning Bed Dangers While Pregnant or Trying to Get Pregnant
Despite the damage tanning can do to your skin, it's still popular. However, if you're pregnant it could be potentially dangerous to you and your baby. State laws differ on whether or not a pregnant woman can use a tanning bed, but there may be possible risks. So if you are--or are thinking about--getting pregnant, learn a little bit about why you may want to refrain from tanning beds.
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Heat
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Tanning beds may be dangerous to your baby because of the heat they emit. Pregnant women are advised to avoid prolonged sun exposure, saunas, hot tubs and tanning beds--especially early in the pregnancy. Overexposure to heat has been linked to spinal deformations in fetuses.
Dehydration
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Another possible negative effect of tanning beds on pregnant women is the dehydration they may cause. Exposure to such heat leads to dehydration, which can be dangerous to a pregnant woman. Dehydrating during pregnancy can lead to many problems including miscarriage, birth defects and early labor.
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Folic Acid
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Another effect of prolonged exposure over time to ultraviolet rays, such as those in a tanning bed, is that it can cause folic acid to break down and deplete in the body. Pregnant women especially need to maintain their folic acid levels, which are important to the baby's health. Folic acid helps prevent spinal deformities such as spina bifida and plays a role in brain development.
Lack of Research
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Although research of tanning beds and their dangers is on the rise, current research available is relatively sparse, given that tanning beds are fairly new. With little research out there, there's always a risk in partaking in something that has insufficient information about dangers. Therefore, it's best to eliminate any risk and refrain from tanning for the nine months of your pregnancy.
A Safe Alternative
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If you're pregnant but still want that golden glow, there is a safe alternative that won't harm your skin, or possibly your baby. Self-tanners are a good alternative. They'll leave you with a sun-kissed look--without overheating, dehydrating or generally harming you or your baby. Self-tanners are available at most general stores and even through spray sessions at a tanning salon.
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