What To Know Before Belly Piercing

By Daniel Newton


Like tattoos, body piercings are more common nowadays than at any previous time in history. They are not an integral part of popular culture. The nose, ears, and naval area are the most common body parts to be pierced. Belly piercing is more common among young women and girls. Perforating the rim just above or just beneath the naval is more common. Many people might also pierce the area near the sides or through the actual naval or belly button, but this practice is less common.

As with any type of skin perforation, belly piercing carries a certain risk of infection that could cause cysts or scars. Rejection is less likely to occur in the naval area than other body areas, but it has a somewhat higher chance of rejection than the lobes of the ear. Much friction exists in the waist area due to frequent bending motions and clothing. Due to these factors, build-up of sweat and bacteria may occur. Thus, scrupulous cleansing is required through the healing process, which may consume six months or more.

Issues to Consider In Advance

Anybody with a medical condition like diabetes, immune disorders, or heart problems should first consult a healthcare professional about any special precautions that might be prudent. Also, it is very important to be current on tetanus and hepatitis B immunizations before getting a belly piercing. Anyone who is susceptible to keloid scarring should never perforate their skin for any reason. Even more important is heeding the advice to receive piercings only from a professional service provider.

Conducting advance research is very helpful. Visit several piercing parlors first to locate a clean, reputable shop and ascertain any procedures they adhere to. The shop should use an autoclave for the sterilization of clamps and other equipment. It should also use new disposable needs and a fresh set of sterile gloves on every patron. If necessary, verify the age at which parental consent is required to obtain service. If available, inspect the piercer's professional portfolio. If you are uneasy about anything or the shop is unsanitary, go elsewhere for service.

What is to Expect

It is very important to be well-hydrated and healthy on your appointment day. If possible, eat a light meal prior to your appointment and wear clothes that fit loosely. Bring someone along with you as a source of support in the event that you should faint. The piercer should fully explain how he or she plans to proceed. The piercer should cleanse the area to be pierced with a germicidal soap, puncture the skin with a sterile need, and placed a curved barbell inside the hole. Afterward, the piercer will discard the used needle in an appropriate receptacle and clean and re-check the pierced area. Next, the professional will instruct you on how to properly care for the wound. At this point, it is an excellent time to ask any questions you may have.

The area will be red, sore, and warm to the touch for the first few days. Touch it only with clean hands when it is time to wash it twice a day. If you keep it clean, the area will generally heal within six months. There may be some residual soreness for a few weeks. It is essential to ensure that the outer clothing or towel does not "catch" on the jewelry. If possible, have the piercing done during the winter or fall months, so that the belly piercing will have healed in time for summer, as swimming during the healing process is not allowed.

Be alert for any signs of infection. These include bleeding, excessive crusting, green pus, swelling, discoloration, pain, and being hot to the touch. If any signs of infection to develop, treat them immediately with a cotton ball soaked in warm salt water several times per day. Obtain medical assistance if necessary. Do not remove the belly ring, as the holes may quickly close and form a hypodermic abscess. Continue regular cleansing of the area even after it appears to be completely healed. Avoid tampering with the barbell or belly ring. Follow these precautions for the entire duration of the healing process.

After the area has healed, you may have some fun and experiment with different jewelry that suits your mood or matches your wardrobe. Try some of the ancient Bali jewelry designs, a traditional barbell, dangling pendants, hoops, barbells with gems, or captive bead rings. If you are not yet ready to get a piercing, use a magnetized belly button ring to make a clear fashion statement.




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