Underage Tattoos: Doctors and Parental Notification

When it comes to underage tattoos, the issue of parental notification can be complex and varies depending on the doctor's opinion and the legal stance in different regions. This article explores these complexities, providing insights from doctors and discussing the legal and ethical implications.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

While the legality of underage tattoos varies by country, in the U.S., a famous case from Acworth, Georgia, highlights the challenges involved. In this case, a 10-year-old received a tattoo with parental consent. The primary concern for doctors in such a scenario is whether the tattoo is a sign of self-harm or infection rather than a simple act of self-expression.

Doctor's Perspective

Several doctors have provided their insights on the matter. Here are their perspectives:

Dr. First Name

"Tattoos are rarely noted in medical charts outside of dermatological appointments or infection screenings. When a patient has a tattoo, especially if it was done professionally, I simply ask if it was done by a professional and if so, I typically don't document it further. If the tattoo was done by someone unlicensed, I perform basic infection screenings. I do not consider tattoos as self-harm in any way—regardless of how wild they may seem. However, if a minor comes in for a visit, I would not classify their tattoo as a self-harm issue. In terms of parents, I don't document anything about tattoos in minors unless there is an infection or other medical concern."

Dr. Last Name

"At that age, building a rapport with the patient is more important than whether or not they have a tattoo. As long as the tattoo isn't infected, I would advise the patient to save up and get a tattoo from a reputable artist when they are fully grown. In terms of telling the parents, I would not do it. It's not considered self-harm; it's a form of self-expression. However, if the tattoo is visible, there is a chance the doctor might notify the parents, especially in Georgia, where doctors are more likely to report such issues."

Precautions and Advice

It's crucial for anyone who gets an underage tattoo to be prepared for the possibility of parental notification. Here are some steps to take:

Choose a reputable and licensed tattoo artist. Make sure the tattoo is done with proper techniques and sterile needles. Avoid visible areas like the belly, unless you are prepared for potential reactions from your parents. Be honest with your doctor about the tattoo, especially if it is visible. Most doctors would not report a non-infectious tattoo, but it’s always best to be transparent.

Conclusion

The decision to notify parents about an underage tattoo largely depends on the doctor's discretion and the policies in place. Doctors generally do not consider tattoos as self-harm, but they might report if there are signs of infection or self-harm. It's essential to consider the potential legal and ethical implications before getting a tattoo underage.