Even a piercing performed by a trained piercer using proper sterile technique has a small chance of getting infected. Most infections occur as a result of improper aftercare. According to Dr. Janet L.H. Keating of the Duke Family Medicine Center, skin bacteria coming into contact with a fresh piercing is the most frequent cause of infection.
Signs of Infection
Discerning whether your piercing is infected or simply irritated is the first step. New piercings are often red and sore, and swelling is normal. But if your piercing is red, sore, swollen, and oozing yellow or green pus, it may be infected. Common causes of infection are touching a piercing with dirty hands, swimming in a communal pool, soaking in a hot tub or allowing someone else's body fluids to come into contact with your piercing.
Removal of Jewelry
While you may be tempted to remove jewelry from an infected piercing, this is usually not the best course of action. The entry and exit holes can close quickly, and the infection can be trapped inside, causing an abscess. If you were pierced by a professional piercer using the proper jewelry, leave it in and allow it to act as a drain. If you pierced yourself or are wearing jewelry that is an improper size, style or material, go immediately to a trained piercer who can put in the correct jewelry for you and advise you on caring for your piercing.
Proper Cleaning
Following the correct aftercare procedure can help get rid of an infection. Moist heat will soothe the piercing and help the infection heal. Soaking twice a day with a mixture of 1/8 tsp. non-iodized sea salt to 1 cup warm bottled water is ideal. Use a new disposable cup, such as a plastic medicine cup, every time you soak. Lean forward and cover the jewelry with the cup to form a seal. Lean back and allow the piercing to soak for 15 minutes. Wash immediately afterward with antimicrobial soap such as Technicare, Satin or Provon. Dry with a clean paper towel.
Antibiotics
Excessive warmth and redness extending more than 1/2 inch beyond the piercing could be a sign of cellulitis, a spreading of infection beyond the immediate area of a wound. At the first indication of cellulitis, you should see your doctor to obtain a prescription for antibiotics. Ignoring a spreading infection could lead to toxic shock syndrome. If you have neglected your piercing, see signs of cellulitis and have begun to experience fever or chills, go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Proper Sterile Technique
To minimize the risk of infection, make sure the person piercing you follows correct sterile procedure. Look for a certificate from the Association of Professional Piercers, which is your indication that your body modification artist is trained in preventing cross-contamination and transmission of bloodborne pathogens. All body piercings should be done with single-use, autoclave sterilized needles. Your piercer should wear sterile gloves and remove all tools from the autoclave bags in front of you. Never allow your navel to be pierced with a piercing gun or attempt to pierce yourself.
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