Nipple piercing is a popular form of body art, and many people choose to have their nipples pierced as a form of expression.
They're not something new, as they've been used by different cultures for centuries. However, today they're very popular among men and women who embrace the trend and seek to add a different, bold touch with a bit of sparkle to their appearance.
Before you decide to get them done It is important for you to know that nipple piercings can be quite painful if they become irritated. In this article, we'll discuss the causes and solutions for nipple piercing pain.
Is it normal for it to hurt?
Actually, yes. Nipple piercings are a sensitive area, so it's normal to experience discomfort, especially during the first few days.
It is an area in which there are many different nerve endings, which makes it extremely sensitive to external stimuli.
The piercing process can be quite painful, and you may need to seek anesthetic creams or pain relievers before the procedure. Although it is very quick, It is very important to do it with a professional to avoid feeling intense pain or any type of complication.
Something you should know is that there are different types of pain after getting a piercing, and it's important to know how to distinguish them:
- Initial pain: It's the sharp pain you feel right after the piercing. It's usually brief and bearable.
During healing: It's a more constant pain that can last for several weeks or even months. It's part of the healing process and is usually mild. - Abnormal pain: It is a severe, stabbing, or throbbing pain, accompanied by other symptoms such as excessive redness, swelling, discharge, or fever. This type of pain may indicate an infection or other complication.
Causes
Most nipple piercings are made of metal, and sometimes the metal can irritate the skin around the piercing. In addition to irritation from the metal, Some people may have an allergic reaction to the metal used in the nipple piercing.
It can also become infected, causing pain, swelling, and redness. In some cases, the piercing can become embedded in the skin, causing even more discomfort.
Treatments to avoid pain or discomfort
Cleaning the piercing
One of the first things you should do when you notice pain from a nipple piercing is to clean it. You can do this using sterile saline solution and a cotton swab.
You should clean around the piercing and the jewelry to help eliminate bacteria that may be contributing to the infection. If the area is too painful to clean with a cotton swab, you can try soaking the piercing in a saltwater bath.
Change jewelry
If your nipple piercing is made of a metal you are allergic to, you can try changing the jewelry to another metal. Some recommended options for nipple jewelry are steel surgical stainless steel, titanium and niobium.
These metals are hypoallergenic and should cause less skin irritation. Additionally, changing your jewelry can help alleviate some of the pain from the piercing.
Use over-the-counter pain medications
If your nipple piercing is causing you more pain than you can bear, then you may want to consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Many people find that ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve some of the discomfort from the piercing. Be sure to use these medications as directed, and if the pain is severe, it may be best to consult a doctor.
See a doctor
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor:
- Excessive redness or spreading.
- Severe swelling.
- Yellow or greenish discharge (pus).
- Fever.
- Stabbing or throbbing pain.
- Migration or rejection of the jewel.
In some cases, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic treatment to help clear the infection. They may also be able to remove the piercing and provide you with other treatment options.
Hygiene is the key to painless healing.
Saline solution: Prepare a solution with 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in a cup of warm water.
Soak a sterile gauze pad in the solution and apply it to the piercing for 5 to 10 minutes, twice a day. This helps to cleanse, disinfect and reduce inflammation.
Neutral soap: Use a mild liquid soap, without fragrances or dyes. Gently wash the piercing with warm soapy water, lathering with clean fingers. Rinse thoroughly and dry with sterile gauze or a paper towel. Avoid rubbing or using sponges, as these can irritate the area.
Warm compresses for immediate relief: Soak a sterile gauze pad in warm (not hot) water and apply it to the piercing for 10 to 15 minutes.
Heat helps increase circulation in the area, which reduces inflammation and pain. You can do this several times a day, especially if you feel discomfort.
Cold compresses: If you feel very hot in the area, or a lot of swelling, you can use a cold compress.
Wrap the ice in sterile gauze, or use a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel. Apply the compress for no more than 10-minute intervals.
Clothing to avoid friction: Sports bras are a great option. They provide support and prevent excessive movement of the piercing, reducing irritation. The best bras are those made of cotton, without underwire or lace.
Nipple shields: You can use silicone protectors or sterile gauze to cover the piercing and protect it from rubbing against clothing. This will be very useful, especially at night or when exercising.
How to care for your nipple piercing
There are several steps you can take to help prevent nipple piercing pain. First, you should always clean your piercing as soon as you notice any signs of irritation or infection.
Also, take good care of your piercing and avoid playing with it or pulling on it. Something very important is to use jewelry made of hypoallergenic materials when you get a piercing, to reduce the chances of an allergic reaction.
You should also keep in mind that if the piercing closes for any reason, go to a professional to have it redone; do not try to open it yourself.
You have to take good care of your nipple piercing and make necessary changes to the jewelry to help prevent and relieve pain. If you experience extreme discomfort, consult a doctor immediately.
If you are determined to wear it on your body, taking into account all the necessary care and practicing perfect hygiene, you will be able to show it off without any problems.