People who get their nipples or genitals pierced can develop infections or skin irritation. Researchers from the Carlow University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania found that up to two-thirds of people with intimate body piercing developed problems, but only 3 per cent visit a doctor. Instead, most people with problems sought help from the person who pierced them. Researchers advise that people should seek healthcare from licensed healthcare providers only. The reason that people don't want to go to healthcare providers is because they don't want to be told to take it off. Many doctors don't understand why people want to keep their piercings on. Researchers asked 146 men and women with intimate piercings to complete a questionnaire, asking them about their background, the reason they decided to get a piercing, and what complications arose from it. It was found that 43 per cent had nipple piercings, 25 per cent had genital piercings, and approximately one-third had both types. Study participants were 27 years old when they decided to pierce their nipples, and 28 years old when they pierced their genitals. The great majority said they were happy with their decision. The study showed that people didn't do this impulsively. It was found that people got pierced in order to express themselves, and were uninfluenced by celebrities, friends or family. However, 66 per cent of people with nipple piercings developed health problems after the procedure, as did 52 per cent of people with genital piercings. The most common nipple problems included site sensitivity, irritation and infection. After genital piercings, nearly 40 per cent of men said they developed changes in urinary flow. It is recommended that people who want to go for piercing should make sure that a new needle is used every time and the facility is clean, which can reduce the risk of infection.
Journal of Advanced Nursing,
February 2005
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