Are tanning beds safe during pregnancy? Is it safe to sunbathe outside?

Most experts discourage tanning whether you're pregnant or not. When your skin tans, it's trying to protect itself from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. These UV rays are hard on your skin because they:

• Increase the risk of skin cancer
• Give you a bad burn if you're exposed to them for too long
• Increase signs of aging

UV rays are bad for everyone, but sunbathing is especially bad if you're pregnant. Your skin is probably more sensitive to sunlight than it was before, so you may burn easily. Sitting under the hot sun (or in a tanning bed) for a long time may make you overheated or lose body fluids (dehydrated). Both of these are bad for your growing baby. Also, UV rays may break down folic acid, an important vitamin that helps your baby's brain and spinal cord develop.

The best way to tan during pregnancy is to use sunless tanning lotion or spray. If you do sit in the sun, wear sunscreen and drink lots of water to stay cool and hydrated.

January 2007