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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Piercing and Tattoos > Lip piercing at home
Posted on: 06/21/2006
Question
I recently got my lip pierced. I did it myself, so the risk of infection is higher, I know. I did it two days ago. The piercing is now emitting this puss-like substance. Kind of a whitish liquid stuff. And I was wondering whether that is that white discharge it's supposed to emit, or if it's infected? And how can I tell the difference?
Answer
You're right, piercings are safer if done by a professional who uses sterile equipment. Signs of infection include fever, significant swelling, tenderness, redness and puss discharge. It sounds like your piercing is infected: you need to see your doctor as soon as possible to determine if antibiotics are needed.