Complications
Some of the complications of nipple piercing can include:
Infection of the nipple, which in women can quickly travel through the milk ducts and into the lymph nodes under the arm.
Scarring.
The growth of a cyst inside the nipple.
Problems with healing if the jewellery is too small.
Avoiding infection
A pierced nipple should heal in around six to 10 weeks. Some suggestions to care for your nipple in the meantime include:
Keep piercings as dry as possible.
Wash your hands before touching the piercing.
Do not use your fingernails to move the jewellery.
Do not share jewellery with friends.
Don’t touch or turn the jewellery unnecessarily during the healing process. If you do need to touch it always make sure your hands are clean.
Do not remove the scab as this protects the piercing from infection.
Use an antibacterial liquid soap on the piercing site when you’re showering or bathing.
Use a tissue or cotton bud to dry the piercing after a shower or bath. Do not use a towel or face washer.
Do not use any alcohol-based cleaning solutions, tea tree oil, hydrogen peroxide, skin cleansers, antiseptic solutions or cream. These can dry out the skin and can sometimes result in prolonged healing times.
Avoid swimming until the piercing has healed as water can pose a risk of infection.
Keep jewellery in place, and the piercing intact, by covering it with sticking plaster, or where appropriate, wearing a bra when you’re sleeping or exercising.
Don’t remove the jewellery before the wound has fully healed.
See your doctor
An infected nipple is treated with antibiotics. See your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms:
Pain
Swelling
Inflammation
Yellow pus.
Piercing should be avoided by some people
The risk of infection and complications mean that nipple piercing should be avoided in certain circumstances, including in combination with:
Some medications - such as anticoagulant drugs, immunosuppressive medications and some corticosteroids.
Chemotherapy - which reduces your immunity and makes you more susceptible to infection.
Breast implants - particularly those implants located in front of the chest muscle, rather than behind.
Certain disorders - including heart valve disease, rheumatic fever and skin infections.
Where to get help
Your doctor
An experienced body piercer, registered with your local council
Your local council
Things to remember
Choose an experienced piercer who works in a premise registered with your local council.
Care for your nipple while the site heals includes regular bathing with anti-bacterial soap and only handling the piercing when necessary.
If you experience any pain, swelling, inflammation or yellow pus, seek medical advice immediately.
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The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched ... but are felt in the heart. Helen Keller
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