Naval Piercing Care Information

As the popularity of naval piercing continues to grow, so does the risk for infection. Serious reactions, including allergic reactions, keloid scarring and serious infections, such as hepatitis, are possible. The risk of serious complications related to naval piercing can be reduced by following safety recommendations and proper care before, during and after piercing.

Before Piercing Preparations

• Preventing infection and other serious reactions to naval piercing begins with proper preparation and planning. Only a trained professional should perform naval piercings. Finding a clean piercing shop operated by a professional staff that has a good reputation is important. The professional who does the piercing needs to follow appropriate safety procedures, including thorough hand washing before the procedure, wearing disposable gloves during the piercing, using tools that are disposable or sterilized, and using a new needle. Another important consideration before piercing is the type of jewelry you will select. Choose naval jewelry made of titanium, 14-karat gold or surgical steel. Nickel or brass can cause allergic reactions and should be avoided.

Increased Risk Factors for Infection

• Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart problems or a weakened immune system, can increase the risk for piercing-related infections. It is important to seek guidance from a physician prior to piercing if you have any of these types of medical problems. Always disclose relevant medical information to the professional performing the piercing. There may be additional safety recommendations or procedures needed due to your specific condition.

Prevention of Infection

• After piercing, it is important to follow all instructions from the piercing professional. General instructions include washing the piercing area twice each day and applying a medicated cleanser. You will likely also be instructed to turn or gently move the jewelry in the piercing daily. This will help prevent the skin from sticking to the jewelry. Only wash the piercing with a gentle, fragrance-free soap. One that contains anti-microbial or germicidal properties is preferred to help prevent infection.

Symptoms of Infection

• Symptoms of a piercing-related infection include localized redness, swelling and pain around the piercing area. Some tenderness after piercing is normal, but this should subside within a few days of the piercing. Another symptom of infection is a smelly yellowish discharge or pus coming from the piercing. You should contact your doctor if you have any of these symptoms of infection or if you develop a fever.

Long-Term Care and Cleaning

• Naval piercings heal from the outside in, so they appear to heal rather quickly. The inner layers of tissue require a lengthy time to heal completely. It is important to continue your cleaning regimen indefinitely. Cleaning and turning the piercing twice daily is recommended. Do not over clean your naval piercing. Doing so can cause undue trauma to the healing skin and increase the risk of infection. Avoid touching the piercing except during cleaning, this will help reduce the risk of infection. Keep your bedding clean by changing your bed sheets regularly. To protect the area while sleeping, wear loose, comfortable and breathable clothing. Get seven to eight hours of sleep each night, eat nutritious foods, practice overall good health habits and live a healthy lifestyle to increase the healing rate and long-term health of you and your piercing.