Can You Catch HIV From Getting A Tattoo

Here's a taste of what TheBody.com has to offer on this topic:

Ask the Experts

what about getting a tattoo?

hello doctori couldn't seem to find information if it's ok to get a tattoo and be positive? i'm assuming if surgery is ok that possibly a tattoo would be no big deal. i happen to be on my first regimen of Atripla for 6 months now with...

Response from David Wohl, M.D.

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

I don't see why a new tattoo would be a problem, provided it was tasteful. Of course, sharing your HIV+ status with the artist would be nice.DW... Read more »

Scared after tattooing HIV positive client

I was doing a tattoo on a client who has told me he is HIV positive and I have tattooed him a... Read more »

Response from David Wohl, M.D. »

could i catch hiv from my own semen (CAN YOU GIVE YOURSELF HIV/AIDS)

i just want to know that if put my own semen on a sex toy and insert it in to me can i catch... Read more »

Response from Robert J. Frascino, M.D. »

Go to Ask the Experts »

Articles

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Australia's Olympic Doctors Warn Team Off Getting Tattoos

On Tuesday, the Australian Olympic team's doctors advised athletes attending next year's games in Beijing to forego getting traditional celebratory tattoos until they are back at home. The doctors are concerned the tattoos could transmit hepatitis... Read more »

Wisconsin: License Ensures Tattoos Applied Safely

Area health officials are warning residents against getting tattoos from unlicensed inkers, saying state-mandated health and safety standards minimize infection risks. To receive licensure from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, tattoo... Read more »

Canada: HIV, Hepatitis Tests Urged After Unlicensed Tattoo Parlors Closed in Calgary

After receiving tips from the public, Calgary health officials shut down seven unlicensed tattoo and piercing parlors during recent investigations. Officials said customers of the establishments listed below should seek testing for hepatitis C and... Read more »

Indiana: "Home" Tattoos Illegal, Unhealthy, Experts Warn

Vigo County Health Department officials want to raise public awareness over the risks of unlicensed or "home" tattooing. Marci DeBoy, an environmental health specialist with the county, cautions that people receiving home tattoos can be at higher... Read more »

Connect With Others

Tattoo's and HIV

Posted by Anonymous, 4 Replies

Hi everyone,
I am + but my viral load is below 200. I am wanting to go for my first tattoo (at 32!) but I worry about exposure and disclosure, has anyone out there been refused because of their stat, or is it a don't ask don't tell policy (since I... Read more »

TATTOO RISKS???

Posted by curls, 2 Replies

I got my first tattoo on March 10 and have been worried about hiv infection ever since. I had the tattoo done at a shop that's been established for 15+ years, but is a little on the scuzzy side. I personally didn't see the artist open new needles ... Read more »

Can you catch hiv from this encounter

Posted by kris, 2 Replies

I have a friend who is hiv positive he has been so for ten years but I just found out recently. I have some anxiety about germs in general so I dont shake hands. I always give people fist bumps. But I am growing concerned becasue I gave him a Fist... Read more »

Tattoo and me

Posted by Anonymous, 2 Replies

Hello, I'm 16 going on 17 and I want to get a tattoo for my birthday. I am HIV positive. I'm wondering if there can be any complication towards me if I get a tattoo. I am of course aware that I need to go to a safe sterile professional environment... Read more »

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