To some, getting your nipples pierced may sound like a scene plucked straight out of a horror movie, with words like “pain,” “awkwardness,” and “discomfort” coming to mind. But nipple piercings can actually function as empowering body modifications with the ability to increase body confidence and self-esteem.
The nipple piercing, once popular in the ’90s, has recently gotten trendy again by way of celebrities like Noah Cyrus and Kendall Jenner. If you’re considering getting one (or two) of your own, it should be a positive experience, not an intimidating one. That’s not always an easy mindset to take on, especially when you’re facing the thought of a needle going through your nipple, but there are many things you can do to make the process easier.
Whether you’re still on the fence or already preparing to book your appointment, we talked to four different piercers about everything you should know before getting your nipples pierced. Read their advice for safer, healthier piercings you won’t be able to resist showing off.
Unsplash/Jan Kopřiva
Yes, You Can Still Breastfeed
Joyce said that another major concern people have is whether or not nipple piercings will affect their ability to breastfeed. Luckily, according to Joyce, if the piercing is done properly and is fully healed by the time the client needs to breastfeed, it shouldn’t be an issue. The only stipulation he mentioned: “If you were to happen to find out you were pregnant right after getting them pierced, then we would suggest taking them out.” This precaution will help to prevent any potential irritation, infection, or pain.
Unsplash/Sharon McCutcheon / Poh Kim Yeoh / EyeEm
Bring a Comfortable Bra
One thing Joyce said more people should bring to their appointments is some kind of layer to keep their piercings safe and stable. “We get a lot of women who show up, and they think that wearing nothing is going to be more comfortable, so they leave their bra at home,” he said. In actuality, for most people, “Something that applies a little bit of pressure is definitely going to be more comfortable because you don’t want any movement in there.” Beall also suggested that clients wear a bra or protective layer of some kind to sleep in, so that nipple piercings stay compressed and don’t get caught in the middle of the night.
