How to prevent nipple piercing infection

In Spain, the fashion for piercings came years ago to stay. However, infection due to not taking proper care of it is also very common. In fact, it is a common practice within many indigenous tribes. The nipple piercing is one of the most popular today, and is highly requested by both men and women.

However, because it is such a delicate area, we must be very careful, since the risk of infection is very high and wounds can form. To avoid this, you must heal your nipple piercing according to the professional's instructions, and take the appropriate hygiene measures during the first weeks while it heals. We tell you how to prevent nipple piercing infection. Take note!

Symptoms of an Infected Nipple Piercing

The first thing to do before handling the piercing is to wash your hands very well. However, you should know that this area is so delicate that the piercing may still get infected.

And it is that the nipple piercing is one of the most infected, and more easily, since this area is especially delicate. In addition, nipple piercing is usually so painful due to its sensitivity, and the pain could last 5 or 6 weeks, because it is also one of the piercings that takes the longest to heal.

Although it is true that there are tricks so that a piercing does not get infected, like the ones we show you in this article, it is quite common for the piercing area to be a little inflamed and you feel pain or discomfort for the first few days.

Therefore, so that you know how to differentiate if your nipple piercing is evolving favorably or if it is infected, we show you the symptoms that it will present in case of infection:

Severe pain

itching and itching

Inflammation

Severe redness and irritation

Yellow or greenish discharge, depending on the degree of infection

Presence of blood

Fever

Unpleasant odor

In any of these cases, and if the tricks to prevent a piercing from getting infected have not been very effective, we show you how to cure an infected nipple piercing. In addition, in the face of certain symptoms such as fever, bleeding or severe swelling with redness, it is best to consult the professional who performed it on you or your family doctor.

Remedies to cure an infected nipple piercing

Here are some natural remedies that can reduce discomfort and lessen the infection if it is not very serious:

Antibacterial Soap

If your nipple piercing has become infected, the first thing you should do is clean it properly. To do this, use mild antibacterial soaps, as they will help clean, cure and disinfect the piercing.

These soaps have antiseptic substances that help reduce bacteria on the skin. To apply the soap, use cotton swabs or swabs to access the area and remove whatever has caused the infection. Do not use the same swab more than once.

Marine solution

To prevent your nipple piercing from becoming infected, marine solutions are ideal for cleaning and disinfecting wounds and piercings. You can buy a prepared one, or make a homemade solution with water and salt.

When applying it you may notice that it stings, but it is normal. It means that the salt mixture is cleaning and healing the wounds, since its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are very powerful.

Pour the saline solution into a container and let the breast rest in it for about 5 minutes, but no more. Then, rinse the area very well with plenty of water and dry it very well. You can also soak a cotton swab in the mixture and gently wipe it through the nipple piercing. Let it act for a few minutes, rinse with a clean cotton swab and dry completely.

Antibiotic cream

This product is usually recommended in these cases, as it helps heal the nipple piercing by eliminating the bacteria that cause the infection. Apply the antibiotic cream on the nipple piercing twice a day but, before buying it, consult your doctor or pharmacist so that they can prescribe the most suitable one for you.

Ice

Cold soothes and reduces inflammation, which is why it is highly recommended if your nipple piercing inflames. Do not apply the ice directly to the skin, wrap it in a cloth and place it in the area around the piercing, but never on top of it.

Tricks to prevent a piercing from becoming infected

The best way to prevent a nipple piercing from becoming infected is to prevent it. Therefore, we offer you some tricks so that a piercing does not get infected:

1. Clean your nipple piercing daily, even at least twice a day. You will have to do it between 3 and 6 months, which is how long it takes for this piercing to heal completely. Do not overdo it with cleaning either, that could be counterproductive, as it will end up irritating the skin in the area. Do it with salt water or sterile solutions, avoid aggressive products or soaps, and remember to wash your hands before handling the piercing.

2. Don't touch it until it's healed, except for routine cleaning, otherwise you could slow healing or contaminate it with bacteria and germs.

3. Avoid certain sexual practices, as some fluids such as saliva contain bacteria and could cause the appearance of an infection.

4. To avoid infections, irritations and discomfort, it is better that you use breathable clothing, such as cotton. Wash your sheets once a week and sleep in baggy shirts to prevent your nipple piercing from snagging. Women should wear a sports bra for the first few weeks and also to sleep. Avoid strong substances in the area, such as soaps, perfumes, lotions, etc.

5. Finally, always keep the piercing dry. And for this, it is best to use a cotton ball or a piece of paper giving small touches after cleaning or showering. Do not use towels, they could irritate the nipple or contain bacteria.

In any case, to prevent nipple piercing infection, see your GP. It is important that you go to a professional if you suffer severe pain, swelling or pus in the area.