Know the risks

A piercing is the creation of an opening in a part of the body for the insertion of jewelry. It's rarely done with a numbing agent (anesthetic).

Any type of piercing poses a risk of complications, including:

• Allergic reactions. Some piercing jewelry — particularly pieces made of nickel — can cause allergic reactions.
• Oral complications. Jewelry worn in tongue piercings can chip and crack your teeth and damage your gums. Tongue swelling after a new piercing can interfere with chewing and swallowing — and sometimes breathing.
• Skin infections. This might cause redness, pain, swelling or a pus-like discharge after a piercing.
• Other skin problems. Piercing can lead to scars and raised areas caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue (keloids).
• Bloodborne diseases. If the equipment used to do the piercing is contaminated with infected blood, you can contract various bloodborne diseases, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, tetanus and HIV.
• Tearing or trauma. Jewelry can get caught and torn out accidentally, potentially requiring stitches or other repair.

You might need medication or other treatment if you develop an allergic reaction, infection or other skin problem near the piercing.