Suntanning??

How safe is suntanning while pregnant? I know that high temperatures are not good, hence no hot tubs and saunas during pregnancy. I live in seattle and it's a pleasant 70 degrees out, so it doesn't seem too hot. Sunny days are rare here so I just love sitting in the sun with a good book, would hate to be doing something unsafe though.... any thoughts?

[first time mama]

I would say as long as you don't get above the rec. 102 temp (and at 70 I wouldn't think you would even get close) you should be fine!  I lived in Seattle last year and know how excited people get when the sun is out...enjoy it!

[littleonetoluv]

I think you are ok as you said the weather there is not normally so nice, and I dont think sitting out in 70 degree weather is harmful, actually I would think it to be beneficial because of the sunlight you are getting. I was getting kind of depressed a few weeks back, and I didnt really think it had to do with pregnancy hormones and my doc recommended I get out and walk, becuase all I was doing was sitting inside a stuffy office all day and then going home  to sit on the couch becuase I was so tired. So she recommended I take a light brisk walk in the evening, to get some fresh air and some sunshine, and guess what it made me feel a whole lot better:)and i know if I feel better then my baby can only benefit from that. So enjoy!

[moonflower]

It might be best to avoid using sunbeds if you are pregnant. Sunbeds can create heat that would be uncomfortable for both the expecting mum and unborn baby.

Some preliminary studies suggest there may be a possible link between exposure to ultraviolet rays and folic acid deficiency. This is because folic acid can be broken down by strong sunlight.

In the first few weeks of pregnancy, high levels of folic acid help protect against neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, in the developing baby. While further studies have yet to be done, these initial studies suggest that intense or prolonged exposure to UV light should be avoided around the time of conception and in early pregnancy. After the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, all the developing baby's major organs have been formed and any risks are reduced.


I though this might be interesting for you to read!!