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Do nipple piercings damage nipples?

Understanding the Risks of Nipple Piercings
Nipple piercings have gained popularity for their aesthetic appeal and personal expression, but they come with a range of potential risks that can lead to damage. While many individuals enjoy their piercings without significant issues, it is crucial to understand the possible complications that can arise.
Physical Risks and Complications
One of the primary concerns associated with nipple piercings is the risk of bleeding, infections, and scarring. When the skin is punctured, there is always a chance of bleeding, and if proper aftercare is not followed, infections can occur. These infections can lead to more severe complications, including the formation of abscesses or chronic pain.
Moreover, if individuals attempt to change their jewelry too soon, they may inadvertently damage the healing tissue. This can result in nipple piercing bumps or other complications that can affect the overall healing process.
Impact on Breastfeeding
For those considering breastfeeding in the future, nipple piercings can pose additional challenges. Scar tissue from the piercing may block milk ducts, making it difficult for milk to flow. Furthermore, if the piercing has damaged the nerves in the nipple, it could hinder the breastfeeding process, complicating the baby’s ability to latch on effectively .
Long-term Effects
Long-term effects of nipple piercings can include permanent nerve damage or significant scarring, which may alter the sensitivity of the nipple. This is particularly concerning for individuals who may wish to breastfeed later, as the structural changes can impact both the physical ability to nurse and the overall experience.
Choosing a Professional Piercer
To mitigate these risks, it is essential to seek out a qualified and experienced piercer. A skilled professional will ensure that the piercing is done in a safe manner, minimizing the likelihood of complications. They will also provide guidance on proper aftercare, which is critical for healing.
In conclusion, while nipple piercings can be a form of self-expression and beauty, they are not without their risks. Understanding these potential complications is vital for anyone considering this body modification. Proper care and professional guidance can help ensure a safer experience, but individuals should weigh the risks against their personal desires and future plans, particularly regarding breastfeeding.

Does piercing your nipples keep your nipples hard?

Although fresh nipple piercings make nipples very reactive so they stay hard for most of the time, that’s only temporary and it will return to normal once they are further along in the healing process. Nipple piercings can make inverted nipples stay out, but that something completely different.

Can you still feel your nipples if you get them pierced?

Increased sensitivity.
Nipple piercings might improve your overall nipple sensitivity. So even if you don’t climax, they can still feel really great when flicked, licked, or sucked.

Do nipple piercings make nipples look better?

Often, pierced nipples protrude more, ensuring that they won’t go unnoticed in a tight t-shirt. Both men and women who get their nipples pierced for this reason wear their nipple piercing jewelry proudly in order to show that they aren’t afraid of their bodies. Others who get their nipples pierced simply love the look.

Are nipple piercings bad for your nipples?

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. There have been reports of mastitis and abscesses from previous nipple piercings as well.

Is it a sin to get nipple piercings?

It is not a sin to get body piercings. People often use 1 Corinthians 6: 19–20 to to justify this claim, in addition to any number of other “body issues” they disagree with. For example: piercings, tattoos, smoking, not exercising, etc.

Do nipples go back to normal after piercing?

No. They usually will stick out more for a while after the piercing, but your body gets used to them and the nipples with flatten out again.

Do nipples get bigger after piercing?

This is one of the weirder nipple piercing myths, but it’s a common one. In some cases, the jewellery will make the nipple itself appear a bit larger. The areola, however, remains the same size.

Do nipple piercings leave permanent holes?

Even after a few years, nipple piercings can close inside of a week without jewellery. For some, the hole can stay open for years on its own, although this is rare. Although it is a myth that you can’t breastfeed with a nipple piercing, we still recommend you remove the jewellery during breastfeeding sessions.

Do nipple piercings cause permanent damage?

Bacteria can build up around the pierced area and infect the tissue, causing pain, swelling, and pus. Untreated infections can permanently damage or destroy your nipple tissue and spread to other parts of your body.

How do I protect my nipples after piercing?

Try not to let your nipple ring snag on your clothes, towels, or sheets. This could tear your skin and lead to an infection. You can wear a padded bra, thick sports bra, or cotton T-shirt to protect your newly pierced nipple.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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