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NIPPLE PIERCINGS

Nipple piercings can be positioned horizontally or vertically. Rings are usually chosen as the initial jewelry in horizontal piercings because they can be cleaned more easily than barbells. The inside diameter of the ring should be approximately ¼» wider than the length of the piercing. No more than ¼ of the ring should be through the piercing. A ring which is too small in diameter will constrict the piercing and cause the entrances of the piercing to migrate to conform to the tight curvature of the ring. It is not uncommon for the nipple to swell or actually grow in size during the healing process; the ring should be wide enough to accommodate expected growth. After the piercing has completely healed a smaller diameter ring can be worn.

Straight and curved barbells are used for vertical piercings. Barbells may be more appropriate than rings for horizontal piercings if the wearer engages in contact sports or daily physical activities that involve lifting and carrying. The barbell should be at least 1/8» longer than the width of the piercing to facilitate cleaning and allow for swelling. The barbell balls should be small enough in diameter so that they do not create pressure against the areola, which can cause the piercing to migrate forward.

Piercings of flat or inverted nipples may be more successful when slightly curved barbells are worn. If the nipple does not protrude from the areola a slightly curved barbell will eliminate pressure between the barbell balls and the areola. While in some cases piercing inverted or flat nipples causes the nipples to develop and enlarge, such results are not guaranteed. Piercings in flat or inverted nipples have an increased risk of migration or rejection.

Jewelry which is too thin is more easily rejected by the body and more likely to tear the piercing with strenuous play. For most people 14 or 12 gauge is appropriate. Larger gauge piercings can comfortably withstand strenuous play. Sensation and stimulation usually increase when larger gauges are worn.

Multiple piercings can be made to crisscross (alternating horizontal and vertical piercings) or made parallel. To prevent complications such as scarring and piercing migration multiple piercings should be made separately; the first piercing should be allowed to completely heal before a second piercing is made. At least 1/8» of tissue should separate the piercings to prevent pressure from the innermost piercing from causing the outermost piercing to migrate out.