Body modifications are now part of a mainstream trend among teenagers. That is not just us talking because in 2010, a clinical study by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that teens have been getting tattoos, piercings, and scarification from their trusted salons.

Research organization Pew Research Center says that 38% of 18 to 29-year-old respondents had at least one tattoo done, while 23% had piercings other than ear piercings. Most of these young adults said that they had successful body modifications, however, 1 in 3 of the respondents encountered complications. 

In relation to this trend, the AAP warned that despite complication-free cases, teens and their parents must be wary of the risks involved, including medical complications and high-risk behaviors causing them. Then, what should they watch out for after the body piercing?

Infected Piercing

Open wounds are a must-observe for piercers because these are entry points for staph or strep bacteria post piercing. The navel, because of its shape, is the most likely to become infected and should be treated immediately.

Skin hygiene and prescribed antibiotic meds can help heal any infection, because navel rings should not be taken out to prevent the piercing from closing.

Blood Poisoning

As with any open wound, body piercings are subject to exposure to hepatitis B and C viruses, as well as tetanus. Choosing a body modification salon carefully can help prevent this kind of infection because these can be contracted through contaminated piercing equipment.

For extra caution, teens should have up-to-date vaccinations against hepatitis B and tetanus, prior to their visit to the piercing salon.

Dental Issues

Tongue piercing is not to be left out from the discussion, especially because it is closely tied to causing a common dental problem. If not careful, the wearer can have tooth chipping or fracture due to toughness of lip and tongue jewelry. It can also cause gum problems or can be swallowed if loose. In some cases, the wearer may have speech, chewing, or swallowing problems.

Teens should do their research on which oral piercing jewelry they should get, and get the piercing done only by a reputed piercer in their area. 

Do you need help in knowing how to avoid the mentioned health risks? You can read up on aftercare knowledge for each piercing. You can visit the Association of Professional Piercers website here. 

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