Something You Need to Know about Body Piercing

What Is a Body Piercing?

Body piercing, which is a form of body modification, is the practice of puncturing or cutting a part of the human body, creating an opening in which jewelry may be worn, or where an implant could be inserted. The word piercing can refer to the act or practice of body piercing, or to an opening in the body created by this act or practice. It can also, by metonymy, refer to the resulting decoration, or to the decorative jewelry used. Piercing implants alter body and/or skin profile and appearance (e.g. golden threads installed subdermal, platinum, titanium or medical grade steel subdermal implants). Although the history of body piercing is obscured by popular misinformation and by a lack of scholarly reference, ample evidence exists to document that it has been practiced in various forms by multiple sexes since ancient times throughout the world. Body piercing can be performed on people of all ages, although most minors are only permitted to have earlobe piercings.

Why do people do piercings?

Why do individuals choose to pierce their bodies? For some, religious or spiritual beliefs may be the reason, while others may do it for self-expression, aesthetic purposes, sexual gratification, cultural adherence, or rebellion.

The most popular non-earlobe sites for piercings among women are the navel, at 33 percent; the nose, at 19 percent; and the ear, other than on the lobe, at 13 percent. Men prefer their piercings on the nipple, at 18 percent; the eyebrow, at 17.5 percent; and the ear, other than on the lobe, at 17 percent. The least popular body site for piercing for both men and women is the genitals.

What Should We Know About It?

If you're thinking about getting pierced, do your research first. If you're under 18, some places won't allow you to get a piercing without a parent's permission, and some require that a parent be present during the piercing. In some states, minors are not allowed to get piercings.

Before getting a body piercing, make sure you have had all your immunizations (especially hepatitis B and tetanus shots). If you have a medical problem (such as heart disease, allergies, diabetes, a weak immune system, or a bleeding problem), talk to your doctor before getting pierced. If you plan to get a tongue or mouth piercing, make sure your teeth and gums are healthy.

Also, if you get keloids (an overgrowth of scar tissue), you should probably not get body piercings.

Even though body piercings are generally accepted, some piercings may hurt your chances of getting a job or advancing your career.

What Happens During a Piercing?

This is what to expect from getting a body part pierced:

• The body piercer should wash their hands with antibacterial soap and water and wear clean, fresh gloves.
• The area to be pierced (except for the tongue) is cleaned with alcohol or other antiseptic.
• You should see the piercer remove needles and equipment from sterile containers.
• Your skin is then punctured with a piercing gun (for earrings only) or a very sharp, single-use needle.
• The piece of jewelry, which has already been sterilized, is placed.
• The body piercer disposes of the needle in a special container so that there is no risk of the needle or blood touching someone else.

The body piercer will give you instructions on how to care for your new piercing and what to do if there is a problem.

Ensure Proper Care for Your Piercings

When it comes to your freshly pierced skin, it's crucial to be aware of the possible swelling, redness, and tenderness that may occur within the first few days. If these symptoms persist after a few days, it is important to seek medical attention immediately to avoid the risk of developing complications.

To prevent any infections and promote quicker healing, follow these steps:

For oral piercings, ensure to rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free, antiseptic mouthwash after each meal and before bed. After it's pierced, ensure to use a new soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent any contact with harmful bacteria. Once the piercing has healed, use a gentle brush to remove any plaque, and consider removing it during any physical activities or while sleeping.

For skin piercings, it is crucial to clean twice a day with soap and water. Before cleaning, make sure to wash your hands properly.

Avoid swimming or any activities that may submerge the affected area.

Don't fuss with your piercing, unless you're cleaning it. Avoid any rubbing of the area as this can delay the healing process.

Make sure to leave the jewelry in place for at least six weeks to ensure proper healing. While it can vary between individuals, some piercings can take longer. Stay on top of the care process and don't rush the healing process.