Tattoos have become a popular way of self-expression in recent years, and the sternum has become a trendy spot for tattoos. However, women who have had a baby may wonder how pregnancy can affect the appearance of their sternum tattoos. In this article, we’ll explore what happens to sternum tattoos after pregnancy.
What is a Sternum Tattoo?
Firstly, let’s talk about what a sternum tattoo is. A sternum tattoo is a tattoo that is placed on the breastbone or the area between the breasts. It’s a unique spot for a tattoo, and it’s often chosen by those who want a discreet tattoo that can be hidden with clothing. Sternum tattoos can be large or small, and the design possibilities are endless.
What Happens to a Sternum Tattoo After Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the body goes through many changes, including weight gain, skin stretching, and hormonal changes. These changes can affect the appearance of tattoos, including sternum tattoos. However, the extent of the changes depends on factors such as the size and design of the tattoo, the duration of pregnancy, and how the woman’s body reacts to the changes.
Here’s a woman who filmed what happened to her tattoo during pregnancy, that started up at her sternum and covered her stomach.
Stretching and Fading
One of the most common changes to a sternum tattoo after pregnancy is stretching. As the belly expands during pregnancy, the skin around the sternum area stretches, causing the tattoo to stretch along with it. This stretching can cause the tattoo to become distorted, and it may appear less sharp and clear than before.
Additionally, the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can also affect the appearance of a sternum tattoo. Some women may notice that their tattoo appears to be lighter or faded, which is often due to the changes in skin pigmentation that occur during pregnancy.
Regaining Shape
Fortunately, the body has a remarkable ability to recover after pregnancy, and this includes tattoos. Once the baby is born, and the body starts to return to its pre-pregnancy state, the sternum tattoo may regain its original shape and color. However, it’s important to remember that the recovery process varies from person to person and may take time.
Tattoo Care during Pregnancy
If you’re pregnant and have a sternum tattoo, you may want to take extra care of it to minimize the potential changes. Firstly, make sure to keep the tattoo clean and moisturized to avoid dryness, cracking, or peeling. Use a gentle, fragrance-free soap and apply a moisturizer that’s safe for pregnancy.
Additionally, it’s essential to protect your tattoo from the sun by wearing protective clothing or using a sunscreen with a high SPF. UV rays can damage the skin and cause the tattoo to fade, so it’s crucial to take preventative measures.
Getting a Tattoo after Pregnancy
If you’re considering getting a sternum tattoo after pregnancy, it’s important to wait until your body has fully recovered. Your body needs time to heal and return to its pre-pregnancy state, and getting a tattoo too soon after pregnancy can increase the risk of complications and affect the tattoo’s appearance.
It’s also important to discuss your plans with your healthcare provider, especially if you’re breastfeeding. While there’s no evidence that tattoos can affect breastfeeding, it’s essential to ensure that the process of getting a tattoo doesn’t interfere with breastfeeding or pose any risks to the baby’s health.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, pregnancy can affect the appearance of sternum tattoos due to changes in the body, including stretching, fading, and hormonal changes. However, the body has an incredible ability to recover after pregnancy, and tattoos may regain their original shape and color over time. It’s important to take good care of your tattoo during pregnancy and wait until your body has fully recovered before getting a new tattoo.
