Body Art Info: Piercings
Nipple
FYI:
Nipple piercings can be positioned horizontally or vertically. Rings are usually chosen as the initial jewelry in horizontal piercings for ease of cleaning. No more than 1/4" or so of the ring should be through the piercing. A ring which is too small in diameter will constrict the piercing, causing migration or preventing healing. 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 usually be worn. Straight and curved barbells can be used for vertical or horizontal piercings. The barbell should be at least 1/4" 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 with curved barbells. 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 if pulled.
Menstrual cycle may cause piercings to become irritated or more sensitive, especially during the healing period. No studies regarding nipple piercings and breast feeding have been conducted, though some women have reported success.
Initial Jewelry:
Captive bead ring, circular barbell, in 16 to 12 gauge, 1/2" to 3/4" inside diameter. The inside diameter of the ring should be at least 1/4" wider than the width of the piercing. 16 to 12 gauge straight or curved barbell with enough leeway in length to allow for cleaning grate to conform to the tight curvature of the ring. Curved barbell in 14 to 12 gauge and 7/16" to 1/2" in length.
Average Healing Time:
3 - 6 mo