How To Pierce Your Own Belly Button

Embark on a journey of self-expression and adornment by learning the art of piercing your own belly button. This intimate and empowering act can enhance your personal style and unleash your inner confidence. As you embark on this self-piercing adventure, it is imperative to prioritize safety, precision, and proper aftercare to ensure a successful and enjoyable piercing experience.

Before embarking on the piercing process, it is crucial to gather the necessary materials. This includes a sterilized piercing needle, a sterile piercing clamp, a clean bandage, and an antiseptic solution. Additionally, you will need a piece of jewelry, such as a barbell or banana bell, specifically designed for belly button piercings. Once you have acquired all the necessary materials, meticulously clean the piercing site and your hands to minimize the risk of infection.

With meticulous preparation and steady hands, mark the desired piercing location on your belly button. Align the piercing needle with the marked spot and, with a swift and precise motion, pierce through the skin. Simultaneously, insert the piercing jewelry into the newly created hole and secure it in place with the backing. Immediately following the piercing, apply pressure to the wound with a clean bandage to stop any bleeding. To ensure optimal healing, diligently clean the piercing with an antiseptic solution twice daily and avoid touching or manipulating it excessively. With proper care and attention, your belly button piercing will heal beautifully, leaving you with a permanent reminder of your bold and empowering action.

Tools and Materials

Before beginning the piercing process, it is crucial to gather all the necessary tools and materials to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Here are the essential items you will need:

### 1. Piercing Needle

The piercing needle is the most important tool for creating the perforation in the skin. It should be made of surgical-grade steel and have a sharp, fine point. The gauge of the needle, measured in millimeters (mm), determines the thickness of the piercing. For a belly button piercing, a 14-gauge or 16-gauge needle is recommended. It is crucial to use a sterilized needle to prevent infection.

Here are some additional considerations when choosing a piercing needle:

Hollow vs. Solid: Hollow needles are more commonly used as they allow the jewlery to be inserted directly through the needle.
Length: The length of the needle should be sufficient to accommodate the thickness of the skin at the piercing site.
Bevel: The bevel, or angle of the needle, should be sharp to ensure a clean and precise puncture.

Needle Gauge	Needle Description
14g	Thick and durable, suitable for larger piercings.
16g	Thinner and more common, suitable for most belly button piercings.

Sanitization and Preparation

Gather necessary materials:

Belly button piercing needle
70% rubbing alcohol
Cotton balls or sterile gauze
Antibacterial soap
Piercing jewelry

Preparation:

1. Clean your hands and work surface:

Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Wipe down your work surface with 70% rubbing alcohol and allow it to air dry.

2. Sanitize your piercing equipment:

Soak the piercing needle in a solution of 70% rubbing alcohol for at least 10 minutes. Wipe down the piercing jewelry with rubbing alcohol.

3. Clean your belly button:

Gently wash your belly button with antibacterial soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. Wipe around the piercing site with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol and allow it to air dry.

4. Mark the piercing location:

Use a pen or marker to lightly mark the exact location where you want to pierce your belly button. Make sure the mark is symmetrical and centered.

Marking the Piercing Location

Accurately marking the piercing location is crucial for a successful belly button piercing. Follow these detailed steps to ensure precision:

Step 1: Identify the Center of the Belly Button

Locate the center point of your belly button by gently pressing on the tissue around the navel. Feel for the deepest indentation, which marks the belly button’s natural center.

Step 2: Measure and Mark the Horizontal Line

Using a ruler or measuring tape, measure approximately 1/2 inch (1.27 centimeters) above or below the center of the belly button. Make a small mark with a pen or piercing marker at this point.

Step 3: Determine the Vertical Line and Exact Piercing Location

To determine the vertical line, fold a small piece of paper in half and place the center crease along the horizontal mark you created in Step 2. Position the paper perpendicular to your body, aligning the crease with the center of the belly button. The crease now represents the vertical line.

Mark the exact piercing location where the vertical and horizontal lines intersect. This point should be approximately 1/4 inch (0.63 centimeters) in from the edge of the belly button, ensuring the piercing will be centered within the tissue.

Measurement	Distance
Above/Below Belly Button Center	1/2 inch (1.27 cm)
In from Belly Button Edge	1/4 inch (0.63 cm)

Creating the Initial Puncture

The initial puncture is the most crucial step in the belly button piercing process. Here’s a detailed guide to help you achieve it safely and effectively:

1. Clean Your Materials and Belly Button

Before piercing, thoroughly clean your hands, the piercing needle, and the jewelry with rubbing alcohol. Clean your belly button with antibacterial soap and water, and pat it dry.

2. Position the Needle

Hold the piercing needle perpendicular to your belly button, slightly above the desired piercing location. Ensure the point of the needle is parallel to the surface of your skin.

3. Stabilize the Belly Button

Use your non-dominant hand to gently stretch the skin of your belly button taut. This provides a secure base for the piercing.

4. Push the Needle Through

With a quick, steady motion, push the piercing needle through the skin of your belly button. As you do this:

Step	Description
a. Start Slowly	Begin by gently pushing the needle through the first layer of skin.
b. Feel the Resistance	As you proceed, you will encounter resistance from the cartilage of the belly button. Push through it slowly and carefully.
c. Keep the Needle Straight	Maintain the needle perpendicular to your skin throughout the puncture. Avoid angling it to prevent tearing or uneven piercing.
d. Push through Both Layers	Continue pushing until the needle exits through the other side of the belly button.
e. Hold the Needle in Place	Once the needle is through, do not remove it. Hold it steady while inserting the jewelry.

Inserting the Belly Button Ring

Once the piercing is complete, it’s time to insert the belly button ring. Follow these steps carefully:

Open the Ring:

Carefully open the belly button ring by gently bending it apart at the ends.
Position the Ring:

Gently insert one end of the ring into the hole from the inside of the belly button. Make sure it goes through the hole smoothly.
Insert the Second End:

Once one end is through, carefully insert the other end into the hole from the outside of the belly button. Ensure it fits snugly but not too tightly.
Close the Ring:

Once both ends are in place, gently bend the ring back together to close it securely. Do not overdo it as you could damage the ring.
Check the Position:

Once the ring is closed, check if it’s positioned properly. The top ball should rest on the upper rim of the belly button, while the bottom ball should hang just below the lower rim.

Material	Advantages	Disadvantages
Titanium	Hypoallergenic, strong, durable	More expensive
Stainless Steel	Less expensive, non-corrosive	Can be less durable, may cause irritation
Gold	Hypoallergenic, durable, attractive	Most expensive

Aftercare and Maintenance

Cleaning the Piercing

Clean your belly button piercing twice a day with a sterile saline solution or a mild, non-scented soap and water. Use a cotton ball or gauze pad to gently clean the area around the piercing, removing any crust or discharge.

Drying the Piercing

After cleaning the piercing, pat it dry with a clean paper towel or gauze pad. Avoid using a towel that has been used for other purposes, as it may contain bacteria.

Rotating the Jewelry

Rotate the jewelry in your belly button piercing a few times a day to prevent the piercing from sticking to the skin. This will help to reduce irritation and promote healing.

Avoiding Friction

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that won’t rub against the piercing. Avoid activities that put pressure on the piercing, such as contact sports or heavy lifting.

Avoiding Irritants

Stay away from harsh chemicals, perfumes, and other irritants that can cause infection or irritation. Also, avoid swimming in pools or hot tubs until the piercing is fully healed.

Watching for Signs of Infection

Monitor the piercing for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional immediately.

Sign	Possible Cause
Redness	Infection, irritation
Swelling	Infection, trauma
Pain	Infection, trauma, improper jewelry fit
Discharge	Normal healing, infection

Potential Risks and Complications

Infection

Infection is a common complication of any piercing, including belly button piercings. Symptoms of an infected piercing include redness, swelling, pain, and discharge. If you think your piercing is infected, see a doctor right away.

Allergic reaction

Some people are allergic to the metal used in belly button piercings. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, rash, and swelling. If you think you are allergic to your piercing, remove it and see a doctor.

Bleeding

Bleeding is a normal part of getting a piercing, but it should stop within a few minutes. If your piercing is bleeding excessively, see a doctor.

Scarring

Scarring is another potential complication of belly button piercings. The risk of scarring is greater if the piercing is not done properly or if it becomes infected.

Keloid formation

Keloids are raised, thick scars that can form after a piercing. Keloids are more common in people with darker skin tones.

Nerve damage

Nerve damage is a rare but serious complication of belly button piercings. Nerve damage can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the area around the piercing.

Organ damage

In very rare cases, a belly button piercing can damage internal organs. This is most likely to happen if the piercing is not done properly or if it becomes infected.

Tips for Safe Piercing

To ensure a safe and successful piercing experience, follow these important tips:

1. Choose a Reputable Piercing Studio

A reputable piercing studio will use sterilized equipment, experienced piercers, and follow proper safety protocols.

2. Bring Proper Identification

Some piercing studios may require a government-issued ID to verify your age and identity.

3. Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications

Certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can increase bleeding during piercing. Avoid taking them before your appointment.

4. Get Enough Rest and Hydration

Being well-rested and hydrated will help your body heal properly after piercing.

5. Dress Comfortably

Wear loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy access to the piercing site.

6. Follow Post-Piercing Care Instructions

Adhere strictly to the aftercare guidelines provided by your piercer to prevent infection and ensure proper healing.

7. Be Patient

Piercings can take several weeks or months to fully heal. Avoid excessive manipulation or changing jewelry too soon.

8. Signs of Infection

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Sign	Action
Redness, swelling, or discharge	Clean the piercing gently and contact your piercer or doctor.
Fever or chills	Seek immediate medical attention.
Extreme pain or throbbing	Remove the jewelry and seek medical attention.

When to Seek Professional Help

While piercing your own belly button can be a tempting DIY project, it’s crucial to seek professional assistance in certain situations. Here are some indicators that you should consult a licensed piercer:

1. Pre-existing Medical Conditions: If you have any underlying health issues, such as diabetes or hemophilia, it’s essential to get a professional opinion before piercing your belly button.

2. Skin Allergies: If you have any known skin allergies, especially to metals like nickel, you need to seek professional advice to avoid potential reactions.

3. Pregnancy: Piercing during pregnancy is generally not recommended due to the risk of infection and potential harm to the developing fetus.

4. Infection Signs: If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, it’s crucial to see a professional immediately to prevent complications.

5. Improper Placement: If you’re uncertain about the proper placement of the piercing, it’s wise to consult a professional to ensure a safe and aesthetic result.

6. Unsterile Equipment: Using unsterile equipment significantly increases the risk of infection. If you lack access to sterile materials, seek professional assistance.

7. Difficulty Inserting Jewelry: If you’re struggling to insert the jewelry into the piercing, it’s best to defer to a professional who has the proper tools and expertise.

8. Previous Piercing Complications: If you’ve experienced any complications with previous piercings, it’s essential to consult a professional before attempting another one.

9. Uncertainty or Concerns: If you have any doubts or concerns about the piercing process or your ability to handle it, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

10. Aftercare

Healing Time:

The healing time for a belly button piercing typically ranges from 6 to 12 weeks.

Cleaning Instructions:

Gently clean the piercing with a cotton swab dipped in a saline solution (1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt in 8 ounces of warm water) twice a day.

Avoid using harsh soaps or alcohol, as they can irritate the piercing.

Other Care Tips:

Keep the piercing dry and protected from excessive moisture.

Avoid touching or playing with the piercing.

Change the piercing jewelry after 6-8 weeks or as directed by your doctor.

Seek medical attention if you experience any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge.

Conclusion

Belly button piercing can be a great way to express yourself and enhance your personal style. By following these steps and adhering to proper aftercare instructions, you can minimize the risk of complications and ensure a successful piercing experience.