With summer approaching, you would love to wear those cute maternity sun dresses, but you don't want to show off your pale white skin. Now, you need to decide what is the best way to tan without possibly putting your baby in danger. Tanning beds during pregnancy are just as safe as tanning outside in the direct sunlight.

At this time there are no studies on the effects of tanning beds on the unborn child, so anything you hear is nothing but myths. The UV light used in tanning beds do not reach the child, therefore your baby is not at risk.

During the first trimester your doctor will advise you not to do anything that will raise your body's temperature, such as hot tubs, saunas, and tanning beds. But, it may be okay to have 10 -15 minute sessions while lying on your side or standing in a tanning booth, to prevent your blood flow from being restricted.

The most important thing to remember is to stay cool and drink plenty of fluids. Your skin during pregnancy is also sensitive to burning, so you should start with short sessions until your body is tanned. Pregnancy and tanning beds is no more harmful to your child than lying in the sun. Just use common sense and make sure you are comfortable. It's always best to go with the motto, if you think it's not worth the risk.. then don't do it!