What Are the Effects of Using Tanning Beds While Pregnant?

Tanning bed use during pregnancy is a very controversial issue. To date, no studies have proven that tanning bed use is harmful to an unborn baby, according to the American Pregnancy Association. However, very few studies have been done on the effects of indoor tanning during pregnancy. Despite the lack of research, most experts suspect there are harmful effects and recommend women to avoid tanning beds while pregnant.

Spinal and Brain Development

• It is risky for a pregnant woman's body temperature to be elevated three to four degrees above normal, according to the Mayo Clinic. When this happens, there is an increased risk of spinal developmental problems, such as spina bifida. The ultraviolet (UV) rays in tanning beds are also thought to break down folic acid, which can also cause spinal cord and brain development problems, according to the March of Dimes.

Decreased Blood Flow

• Laying down for long periods of time on the back is believed to decrease blood flow during pregnancy. This can cause uncomfortable lightheadedness or dizziness for the pregnant woman. Decreased blood flow during pregnancy reduces the oxygen and nutrients being delivered to the baby, which can ultimately slow down development and may also lead to low birth weights, according to the Mayo Clinic. Experts recommend tanning no more than seven minutes at a time to reduce this risk during pregnancy.

Risk of Sunburn and Dehydration

• A woman's skin tends to be more sensitive during pregnancy. This means that tanning both indoors and outdoors increases the risk of sunburn. While a mild sunburn is not harmful to the unborn baby, it can cause the woman to experience a lot of additional discomfort while she is pregnant. Women who tan during pregnancy are also at risk of dehydration due to overheating.

Melanoma

• Tanning bed use has been linked to melanoma, the mostly deadly form of skin cancer. This risk exists for anyone who uses a tanning bed, including women who are pregnant. During pregnancy, there is a risk that melanoma may spread to the placenta, ultimately affecting the baby. This is very rare and only occurs when the melanoma progresses and spreads throughout the entire body, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Considerations

• It is best to avoid using tanning beds, especially during the first trimester when the baby is developing the most. Note that many tanning salons do not allow women to tan while they are pregnant. Self-tanning lotions and sunless tanning sprays are considered a much safer alternative to indoor tanning for women who want to add a sun-kissed look to their skin during pregnancy.