Tanning beds & Pregnancy

Posted by LMB on April 19, 1999 at 12:48:37
I was wondering if it is safe to use a tanning bed while pregnant?  How is the unborn baby affected?  Please advise.  Thank you for your time!

Posted by hfhs.md.rcs on April 19, 1999 at 15:46:35
Dear LMB:
I find no references to suntan or suburn in pregnancy. We do not restrict women tanning in natural light, other than to caution their skin may be more sensitive to dark coloration that may not reverse after pregnancy.
Excessive heating is an issue in pregnancy. Hence, the major concern for the fetus is from heat, and no from the tanning rays.
Keywords: suntan, tanning booth, pregnancy
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