Navel piercing

Navel piercing

A navel piercing with a barbell

A navel piercing, also known as a belly button piercing, is a type of body piercing located through, in, or around the navel. This form of piercing has become increasingly popular since the 1990s, particularly among women.

History

Navel piercing has been practiced in various cultures for centuries. In modern times, it gained popularity in the Western world during the 1990s, partly due to the influence of celebrities and the fashion industry.

Procedure

The procedure for a navel piercing typically involves the following steps:

1. The area around the navel is cleaned and disinfected.
2. The piercer marks the entry and exit points of the piercing.
3. A sterilized needle is used to create the piercing.
4. Jewelry, usually a barbell or a captive bead ring, is inserted into the piercing.

Jewelry

Common types of jewelry used for navel piercings include:

• Barbells
• Captive bead rings
• Banana bells

Healing and Aftercare

The healing time for a navel piercing can vary but typically ranges from 6 months to a year. Proper aftercare is crucial to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. Aftercare instructions generally include:

• Cleaning the piercing with saline solution.
• Avoiding touching the piercing with dirty hands.
• Avoiding swimming in pools, hot tubs, and natural bodies of water.

Risks and Complications

As with any body piercing, navel piercings carry certain risks, including:

• Infection
• Allergic reactions to the jewelry material
• Rejection of the jewelry
• Scarring

Cultural Significance

In some cultures, navel piercings are seen as a symbol of femininity and beauty. They are often adorned with decorative jewelry to enhance the appearance of the midriff.

See also

• Body piercing
• Piercing (body modification)
• Jewelry