Can you get a piercing when breastfeeding?

Can You Get a Piercing While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether one can get a piercing while breastfeeding is a nuanced topic that involves considerations of safety, health, and practicality. While it is technically possible to get certain types of piercings during this period, there are significant factors to weigh, particularly when it comes to nipple piercings.
Breastfeeding and Nipple Piercings
For those who already have nipple piercings, breastfeeding is generally still possible. However, there are important safety considerations to keep in mind. Experts caution that nipple piercings can pose risks both to the breastfeeding parent and the baby. For instance, the presence of jewelry can lead to complications such as infections or blockages in the milk ducts, which may affect milk flow and overall breastfeeding success. Additionally, milk may leak from the piercing site, which can be a concern for hygiene and comfort.
Getting New Piercings
If you are considering getting a new piercing while breastfeeding, the consensus among health professionals is to exercise caution. While there are no injections or drugs involved in the piercing process itself, the risk of infection remains a significant concern. The skin around the nipple is sensitive, and any new piercing can introduce bacteria, potentially leading to mastitis or other infections.
Moreover, the act of breastfeeding itself can complicate the healing process of a new piercing. The friction and movement associated with breastfeeding may irritate the area, making it more difficult for the piercing to heal properly.
Recommendations from Experts
Experts recommend that if you are breastfeeding, it may be best to avoid nipple piercings altogether. If you already have them, it’s crucial to maintain strict hygiene practices and monitor for any signs of infection. Consulting with a lactation consultant or a healthcare provider can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.
In summary, while it is possible to have piercings during breastfeeding, the safest approach is to avoid nipple piercings and to be vigilant about hygiene and health if you already have them. Always prioritize the well-being of both you and your baby when making decisions about body modifications during this sensitive time.

Is it safe to get a piercing in your breast?

Possible Risks
Infection is one of the most common risks that occurs with any body piercing. 1 Other risks include an allergic reaction and scarring. It’s important to consider these risks before getting a nipple piercing.

Can I get a tattoo or piercing while breastfeeding?

It is suggested that mothers wait at least until 9-12 months after birth, when the child is no longer dependent solely on breastmilk before getting a tattoo. Reputable tattoo artists will have a waiver for the client to sign that asks about pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Why are earrings not allowed in nursing?

The results showed that nurses with pierced ears were more likely to test positive for Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA on both their ears and fingers. The study concludes, based on these non-statistically significant numbers, that contamination and cross transmission can occur when fingers contact the earlobes.

Can I get my nose pierced while nursing?

Is it safe to get pierced while nursing? With the exception of a 3-month delay after giving birth, we do not find increased risks in getting pierced while nursing. The body is not under the same type of demands as during pregnancy. The exception is nipple piercings.

Are piercings allowed in nursing?

Currently, body art policies are up to nursing schools and hospitals. Some facilities make you cover up your tattoos with long-sleeved shirts and remove piercings altogether. Other institutions may allow tattoos, but only on specific areas of the body. Nursing schools tend to be less lenient when it comes to body art.

Can you get an ear piercing when breastfeeding?

It is not recommended to get piercings or tattoos while breastfeeding and most shops won’t do it anyway. The hormones necessary to support lactation can affect the healing of the piercing and infection is always a concern.

Can piercing cause problems with breastfeeding?

Nipple piercings can impact breastfeeding for both mother and baby. Common concerns for mom may include nerve damage that impacts the milk ejection reflex or scarring that obstructs the milk flow which can, over time, affect milk production.

When should you not get a piercing?

If you have a medical problem (such as heart disease, allergies, diabetes, a weak immune system, or a bleeding problem), talk to your doctor before getting pierced. If you plan to get a tongue or mouth piercing, make sure your teeth and gums are healthy.

Can you breast pump with piercings?

Your safest bet is to remove your jewelry while feeding. Although it’s not recommended, if you do choose to reinsert your nipple jewelry after each breastfeeding session, it’s extremely important to keep everything clean.

How long after a piercing can you breastfeed?

I recommend that you wait until you’re around 3-6 months postpartum. Why? Well, our bodies are incredibly busy post-birth, recovering and producing milk. Adding the extra task of healing a piercing might be too much, too soon.