Belly button piercing or navel piercing is very popular in many cultures around the world. There are many techniques used, but the most common involves piercings around the navel’s upper rim. In spite of the legends, there is no evidence that piercing can lead to liver infection.
How to Get Your Navel Pierced
The first and most important step is to go to a licensed piercer. A professional piercer won’t just perform the operation; they will first determine if your belly button can withstand the procedure.
A qualified piercer works with disposable hollow needles. All their equipment is sterilized and they wear latex gloves. Wear loose fitting clothing during the process so your belly button doesn’t get scratched.
Keep Focused and Relaxed
Follow any instructions the piercer tells you. Concentrate on your breath or try to focus your attention on any object you can see. The point is you must relax. This will lessen muscle tension and reduce any discomfort you may feel.
After the Piercing
The piercer should only offer you jewelry made of stainless steel, titanium or niobium. These metals are not susceptible to infection. Do not use gold. It is best to avoid taking showers for a few weeks following the procedure (ask the piercer about this).
Wear loose fitting clothes for the next few weeks. Tight fitting apparel may get entangled with the ring. The total healing time is four months, but you should take care of it for about six months to ensure it is totally healed.
Warnings
Don’t panic if after the belly button piercing process, the area is red and white discharge appears. This is normal. Visit a doctor if the discharge is yellowish. See a doctor immediately if there is intense pain or you feel intense heat around the area.
To avoid problems, stay away from strenuous activities after the piercing. Again, never get pierced from unlicensed practitioners. Don’t wear the jewelry if it’s dirty or rusty. Unsterilized equipment could result in infection.
Cleaning the Piercing
Always wash your hands before cleaning it. For the cleaning process, use only warm water. Alternatively you can use a saline mix and anti-bacterial soap. Clean the ring with a soft toothbrush. Use a paper towel to dry it up. Before using jewelry, ensure that it is clean.
Tips
Some people also like to apply lavender oil on the area during the healing process. This may help accelerate the healing process. Never play with the piercing as it is being healed. Only move the jewelry when it has to be cleaned.
Types of Navel Rings
Various types of jewelry can be used. Often, a barbell (also called a bananabell) is worn when the piercing is still healing. Common designs are navel barbells with hanging pendants, belly chains and many more. Your piercer is also likely to give you a few ideas on the latest trends.
As long as you go to a licensed practitioner, the belly button piercing process should be quick and you’ll experience only little discomfort. Using the proper caring methods, the piercing will heal properly.
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