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Answer to Question #2679 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"Category: Pregnancy and Radiation — Tanning The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field: Q
I would very much like a definitive answer on a worry that has been plaguing me . . . Do tanning beds provide harmful radiation to a fetus? I am 18 weeks pregnant and have recently been tanning on a tanning bed (three times in the last week, since conception) in preparaton for a vacation. A few days ago someone mentioned there may be very seriously harmful side effects of tanning bed radiation on a developing fetus. I can find no definite answers in my Internet research and am beside myself with worry as to having now exposed my baby to harmful "rads" and birth defects.
A
There is no evidence that radiation from a tanning bed would cause harm to the fetus, which is probably why you are having trouble finding information. Lights in a tanning bed emit UVA or ultraviolet A radiation, similar to the tanning rays, emitted by the sun although they are more concentrated in a tanning bed. UVA radiation is not very penetrating—clothes can stop it, as you can tell by tan marks when you wear a T-shirt out on a sunny afternoon. UVA radation is not able to penetrate through the skin and abdominal tissue to expose the fetus. There is no reason for concern.
Have fun on vacation. Kelly Classic Certified Medical Health Physicist
Answer posted on 17 May 2003. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.
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