admin posted on July 22, 2010 10:42
When a women finds out she is pregnant, she often has an overwhelming amount worry. “Should I drink that or eat this, continue to exercise or tan?”
I remember reading several studies emphasizing mothers who conceived and carried a child through the summer months exposed to more UV light had children who had higher grade point averages and social standing in communities.
The most current study I have seen is the analyses of relationships between background UVB levels in the third trimester of pregnancy, and total body less head BMC, bone area (BA), bone mineral density and the area-adjusted BMC as measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry scan at 9.9 years. Conclusion of the study showed maternal UVB exposure is related to bone size at age 9.9 years independently of height and lean mass, suggestion that vitamin D status in pregnancy exerts direct effects on both height and lean mass.
An article of early human development, November 2000, states, “The effects of pre- and post-natal sunlight exposure on human growth: evidence from the Southern Hemisphere – concluded pre-natal sunlight is the most significant determination of height.”
According to my research, there are no studies that provide conclusive evidence that tanning beds harm your baby. Most health care providers advise against any activity that may raise your body temperature, such as hot tubs or saunas. Overheating in the mother’s body is associated with spinal malformations. It should be noted hyperthermia develops after the mother’s temperature reaches 102 Fahrenheit or more for several hours. It is most important in UV exposure is to keep hydrated and cool, indoors or out.
During pregnancy, your skin is more susceptible to burning and chloasma (or mother’s mask), the dark splotches that appear on the face during pregnancy. It is a good idea to cover your face or use a SPF to avoid these unappealing splotches.
When choosing to use a spray on tan, you must never inhale any spray; you must avoid the spray coming in contact with mucous membranes such as in the nose, eyes and lips.
Also, as your baby bump grows, lying on your side in a tanning bed will help prevent restricted blood flow or you could always use a stand up booth.
Some salons will only allow tanning upon written approval from their doctor, others use their own discretion.
Sources: Early Human Development
November 2000 (Vol. 60, Issue 1, Pages 35-42)
April 1, 2010; 95(4): 1749 – 1757