If you’re thinking about getting a belly button piercing, there are several things you should know before going under the needle. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about belly button piercings, from the procedure itself to aftercare and potential risks.
The Belly Button Piercing Procedure
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of aftercare and risks, let’s talk about what actually happens during a belly button piercing. A professional piercer will first clean the area and mark where the piercing will go. Then, they’ll use a hollow needle to create a hole in the skin and insert the jewellery. The jewellery will usually be a curved barbell or captive bead ring, and it will be made of a sterile material like surgical steel, titanium, or gold.
The entire process should only take a few minutes, and you’ll likely feel a quick pinch or sting as the needle goes through your skin. Some people report feeling a dull ache or soreness after the piercing, but this should subside within a few hours.
Belly Button Piercing Aftercare
Proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring that your piercing heals correctly and doesn’t become infected. Here are some general aftercare tips to keep in mind:
- Keep the area clean: Use a saline solution or mild soap and warm water to clean the piercing twice a day. Avoid using harsh soaps, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol, as these can dry out the skin and delay the healing process.
- Avoid touching the piercing: Your hands carry a lot of bacteria, so avoid touching the piercing as much as possible. If you need to handle it, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly first.
- Wear loose clothing: Tight clothing can rub against the piercing and cause irritation. Stick to loose-fitting clothing that won’t put pressure on the area.
- Don’t swim or soak in water: Avoid swimming, taking baths, or soaking in hot tubs until your piercing is fully healed. These activities can introduce bacteria into the piercing and delay the healing process.
- Be patient: It can take anywhere from six months to a year for a belly button piercing to fully heal. Be patient and don’t rush the healing process.
Potential Risks of Belly Button Piercings
While belly button piercings are generally safe when done by a professional, there are some risks to be aware of. Here are a few potential complications that can arise:
- Infection: If bacteria gets into the piercing, it can cause an infection. Symptoms of an infected piercing include redness, swelling, and pus. If you suspect your piercing is infected, see a doctor right away.
- Allergic reactions: If you’re allergic to certain metals, the jewellery used in your piercing can cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms include itching, redness, and a rash.
- Migration or rejection: In some cases, the body can reject the piercing and push it out of the skin. This can happen if the jewellery is too heavy, if the piercing wasn’t done correctly, or if the body simply doesn’t tolerate the foreign object.
- Scarring: If you remove the piercing before the hole has fully healed, it can leave a scar.
Before getting a belly button piercing, it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re prepared for the healing process. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to ask your piercer for guidance.