Teen FAQ
For over 10 years, teens have been asking us questions on every topic imaginable. While we are no longer taking new questions, we have a wealth of information we would like to share with teenagers.
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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Piercing and Tattoos > FAQs about piercings
Question
How can body peircing harm your body?
What bad infections can you get and how they occur from piercings?
I just got my navel pierced about 4 weeks ago, and 3 days ago I started to get a rash around it?
Answer
Signs of Infection
If you experience pain that does not go away within a day or two, increased pain, unusual pain or swelling in the piercing site, or see signs of infection, see your health care provider. Do not remove your jewelry. If the jewelry is removed, the openings of the piercing may close and trap the infection, which can create an abscess (a pus-filled, painful area).
Piercing Complications
Tongue piercings initially swell a large amount. Nipple piercings may burrow through milk-producing ducts and cause infection or problems with breastfeeding. If the jewelry is too thin or too heavy, the body may reject the jewelry, or it may cut off the blood supply and cause a lot of swelling and pain.
Infection
The signs of infection you should look for include:
- Oozing or bleeding
- Yellow or green discharge, or pus coming from the body art
- Area feels hot to the touch
- Red lines starting at body art
If you experience any signs of infection or a rash, see your physician immediately.
Teen Advisory Board of PAMF