The Ultimate Guide to Navel Piercings: History, Procedure, Aftercare, and Trends

The allure of a subtle sparkle or a dangling charm at the midriff has made the belly button piercing a popular form of self-expression in the United States. While it might seem like a contemporary trend, the practice of adorning the navel has a history that stretches back through millennia. This comprehensive guide serves as the ultimate resource for anyone considering a belly button piercing, already sporting one, or simply curious about this fascinating form of body modification. From its ancient roots to modern trends, we’ll delve into everything you need to know to make informed decisions and care for your piercing with confidence. 

A Journey Through Time: History and Cultural Roots

The story of the belly button piercing is richer and more nuanced than many might imagine. Evidence suggests that this form of body adornment has been practiced in various cultures across the globe for thousands of years. In ancient civilizations like Egypt, Greece, and Rome, navel piercings were often seen as status symbols, signifying wealth and beauty. For instance, in ancient Egypt, only high-ranking officials and royalty were reportedly permitted to wear navel piercings, often crafted from precious metals like gold and silver. Similarly, in ancient Greece and Rome, these piercings were associated with wealth and social standing, frequently worn by women of high society.

Status and Symbolism: Navel Piercing in Egypt, Greece, and Rome

However, it’s important to note that some historical claims, particularly the widespread notion of navel piercing as a definitive symbol of royalty in ancient Egypt, lack concrete historical support. Certain narratives about the history of body piercing have been perpetuated over time, and it’s crucial to distinguish between well-documented practices and less substantiated claims.

Cultural Significance Beyond the Mediterranean

Beyond the Mediterranean region, the practice of navel piercing also holds cultural significance in other parts of the world. In South Asia, particularly in India, it has a long and deep-rooted history, often associated with Hindu traditions, fertility, and marital status. Young women in India sometimes received navel piercings as part of coming-of-age rituals, and the jewelry worn is known as “kamarbandh” or a waist chain.

Navel Piercing as a Rite of Passage in Various Societies

Additionally, some anthropological accounts suggest that navel piercings may have served as a rite of passage for young women in certain African cultures, marking their transition to adulthood. In ancient Rome, while not specifically navel piercings, septum piercings were notably worn by gladiators as a symbol of strength. The motivations and meanings behind body piercings in ancient times were diverse, often tied to social status, spiritual beliefs, or significant life events.

The Resurgence of Belly Button Piercing in Modern Culture

While navel piercings were present in these ancient cultures, they largely disappeared from Western culture for centuries before experiencing a significant resurgence in the late 20th century. This modern revival is strongly linked to the influence of popular culture, with music icons and celebrities playing a pivotal role in bringing the trend into the mainstream. Key moments include supermodel Christy Turlington displaying her navel piercing on a 1993 cover of Vogue magazine , and Alicia Silverstone’s character getting one in Aerosmith’s “Cryin'” music video in the same year.

Celebrity Influence and the Mainstream Popularity of Navel Piercings

Britney Spears also prominently featured her navel piercing, further contributing to its popularity. The rise of professional piercing studios during this period also made the procedure safer and more accessible to individuals seeking this form of self-expression. The 1990s and early 2000s saw a significant surge in the popularity of belly button piercings, particularly among young adults and teenagers. Although its popularity may have slightly waned in the 2010s, it has continued to be embraced by celebrities in the 2020s, with figures like Kim Kardashian even repiercing their navels, signaling its enduring appeal.

More Than One Way: Exploring the Types of Belly Button Piercings

The term “belly button piercing” encompasses a variety of styles, allowing individuals to choose an option that best suits their anatomy and personal preferences. These can be broadly categorized based on the location of the piercing around the navel and the specific style achieved.

As illustrated in the table, the standard navel piercing remains the most popular choice due to its visibility and versatility. However, options like the reverse navel piercing offer a unique twist with jewelry that dangles from the top, while floating navel piercings provide an alternative for those whose navel anatomy might not be suitable for a traditional piercing. Double and horizontal piercings allow for more creative and striking looks. It’s important to discuss your navel shape and desired aesthetic with a professional piercer to determine the most suitable and safest type of piercing for you. Some types, like surface piercings, have a higher tendency to migrate or be rejected by the body, requiring careful consideration.

The Needle and the Navel: Understanding the Piercing Procedure

Deciding to get a belly button piercing is an exciting step, but understanding the process is crucial for a comfortable and safe experience. The first and most important step is to choose a reputable and experienced professional piercer. Avoid amateur piercings or DIY attempts, as these significantly increase the risk of complications.

The Belly Button Piercing Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide

The typical belly button piercing procedure involves several key steps designed to ensure hygiene and accuracy. First, the piercer will sanitize the environment and all equipment, often using an autoclave to sterilize reusable tools. They will then ask you to lie down in a relaxed position and will thoroughly clean the area around your navel with an antiseptic wipe. If there is any body hair around the navel, it might be removed with a new, disposable razor. Next, the piercer will use a surgical marker to mark the precise spot on your navel to be pierced. This is your opportunity to confirm the placement before proceeding.

Tools and Techniques: Ensuring Hygiene and Precision

Depending on the piercer’s technique and your anatomy, they may use forceps or clamps to gently hold the skin taut around the marked area. A sterile, hollow piercing needle, typically 14 gauge in thickness, will then be swiftly and smoothly pushed through the marked spot. Immediately after the needle passes through, the initial jewelry, usually a curved barbell or a captive bead ring made of a hypoallergenic material, will be inserted into the new piercing.

Jewelry Selection: Best Options for Initial Piercings

The piercer will then clean the area once more to remove any blood or fluid. Finally, they will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, both verbally and often in written form, explaining how to properly clean and care for your new piercing to ensure proper healing.

Pain Level and Healing Expectations

Most people report the pain level of a belly button piercing as moderate, often described as a brief, sharp pinch as the needle goes through the skin, followed by some pressure. Like other soft tissue piercings, the initial discomfort is usually momentary.

Special Considerations for Outie Belly Buttons

For individuals with an “outie” belly button, the piercing procedure requires special consideration. Many professional piercers will assess the anatomy to determine if it’s suitable for piercing. Typically, the piercing is done through the lip of the outie (the raised skin around it), rather than the actual protruding part. Consulting with an experienced piercer who can suggest alternative placements if needed is essential for a safe outcome.

Choosing Wisely: Selecting a Reputable Piercing Studio

The decision of where to get your belly button piercing is just as important as the decision to get one. Taking the time to research and choose a reputable piercing studio can significantly impact your experience and the health of your piercing. Don’t rush this crucial step. 

Cleanliness and Hygiene Standards: What to Look For

Several key factors should be considered when selecting a piercing studio. Cleanliness and hygiene standards are paramount. A reputable studio will be visibly clean and well-maintained. They should use disposable needles that are opened from sterile packaging in front of you. The studio should have sterilization equipment like autoclaves for reusable tools, and they should be able to provide records of regular spore testing to ensure the autoclave is functioning correctly. All piercers should wear a fresh pair of disposable gloves for every procedure.

Piercer Qualifications and Experience: Key Considerations

The qualifications and experience of the piercer are also vital. Check the studio’s online gallery or social media to see examples of their work. Look for artist biographies that mention their experience with belly button piercings specifically. Don’t hesitate to ask how long the piercer has been practicing and whether they completed an apprenticeship. Certifications such as bloodborne pathogens training, First Aid, and CPR are good indicators of a piercer’s commitment to safety. Membership in the Association of Professional Piercers (APP) is a significant indicator of a studio’s and piercer’s adherence to high standards of hygiene, jewelry quality, and safety. You can use the APP website to locate certified members in your area. 

Licensing and Jewelry Quality: Ensuring Safety and Comfort

Ensure that the studio and piercer have the necessary licenses and certifications required by your local laws. These should be visibly displayed in the studio. Inquire about the piercing material options offered by the studio. They should provide high-quality, medical-grade, and hypoallergenic options like surgical stainless steel, titanium, and gold.

Researching Studios: Reviews, Recommendations, and Consultations

Online reviews and social media can provide valuable insights into other clients’ experiences at the studio. Check Google, Yelp, and the studio’s social media pages for unbiased feedback and photos of their work. Recommendations from friends who have had positive experiences can also be helpful. A good piercer will be willing to answer your questions thoroughly and provide a consultation before your appointment to discuss the procedure, jewelry, aftercare, and potential risks. They should also provide you with aftercare instructions. 

Essential Questions to Ask Before Getting Pierced

Don’t hesitate to ask potential piercers important questions, such as:

• Do you use an autoclave to sterilize your tools and jewelry?
• Are your needles single-use and opened in front of me?
• What materials do you use for initial piercings?
• What is your experience with belly button piercings? 
• Can I see your sterilization records? 
• What are your aftercare recommendations? 

By carefully considering these factors and asking the right questions, you can choose a reputable piercing studio that prioritizes your safety and provides a positive experience.

Bling It On: Selecting the Right Jewelry

Choosing the right jewelry for your initial belly button piercing is crucial for proper healing and to minimize the risk of complications. The jewelry inserted during the piercing process, often a curved barbell or a captive bead ring, should be made of high-quality, hypoallergenic materials.

As shown in the table, implant-grade surgical stainless steel and titanium are excellent choices for initial piercings due to their biocompatibility and low risk of allergic reactions. For those with known nickel sensitivities, titanium or nickel-free gold is highly recommended. It’s advisable to avoid jewelry made from nickel alloys and brass, as these are more likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Standard Size

The standard size or gauge for a belly button piercing is typically 14 gauge (1.6 mm in thickness). The initial barbell length is usually around 7/16 inch (11 mm) or 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) to accommodate swelling that may occur after the piercing. It’s generally recommended to avoid jewelry thinner than 18 gauge for a belly button piercing, as it may increase the risk of rejection, tearing, and migration.

Type of Jewelry

There are various styles of belly button jewelry to choose from once your piercing has fully healed. The most common initial style is the banana bell, a curved barbell that is easy to insert and comfortable to wear. Other styles include ball captive rings (BCR), top drop or top dangle jewelry (where the decoration hangs at the top), spiral and super spiral barbells, and various types of dangle and non-dangle belly rings. Clicker rings, which close with a clicking mechanism, are also popular. For fresh piercings, internally threaded jewelry, where the screw threads are on the decorative end rather than the barbell itself, is often preferred as it can provide a smoother and more comfortable insertion.

Nurturing Your New Piercing: Essential Aftercare

Proper aftercare is absolutely crucial for the successful healing of your belly button piercing and to prevent infections or other complications. The healing process for a belly button piercing can be quite lengthy, often taking anywhere from 9 months to a full year for complete healing. This is considerably longer than the healing time for earlobe piercings, which typically takes only 4 to 6 weeks. The extended healing period is due to the piercing’s location on a part of the body that experiences frequent movement, such as bending and twisting at the waist.

Establishing a Proper Aftercare Routine

During the entire healing period, it’s essential to follow a consistent aftercare routine. Always begin by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your piercing for any reason. Clean your piercing once or twice a day using a sterile saline solution or a saline wound wash. Commercial saline solutions specifically labeled for wound wash are generally preferred over homemade saline due to the precise sodium chloride concentration (typically 0.9%), which helps prevent overdrying or irritation.

Cleaning Methods: Saline Solution vs. Antibacterial Soap

If your piercer recommends using soap, opt for a mild, fragrance-free, alcohol-free antibacterial soap. Gently lather the soap around the piercing, ensuring it gets into the entry and exit points, and then rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove all traces of soap. After cleaning, gently pat the area dry with clean, disposable paper products, as cloth towels can harbor bacteria. Avoid overcleaning, as this can also irritate the piercing and slow down the healing process.

What to Avoid During the Healing Process

During the healing period, it’s crucial to avoid touching, twisting, turning, or removing your jewelry. These actions can cause irritation, scarring, infection, and delay healing. Wear clean, loose-fitting, and soft clothing to minimize friction and irritation to the piercing. When exercising, protect your piercing from potential snags or bumps with a protective bandage or a hard plastic eye patch secured with an elastic bandage. It’s also essential to avoid submerging your piercing in public pools, hot tubs, lakes, or oceans until it is fully healed, as these environments can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection.

Clothing, Exercise, and Environmental Precautions

While waterproof bandages might offer some protection, it’s generally best to avoid these bodies of water altogether. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, which can cause sunburns and irritate the healing piercing. Refrain from wearing charms or dangly jewelry during the initial healing phase, as they can easily get caught and potentially tear the skin. Do not change your jewelry until your belly button piercing is completely healed, which can take many months. It’s advisable to check in with your piercer after about 6 to 8 weeks to see if your piercing is sufficiently healed for a jewelry change.

Recognizing Normal Healing vs. Potential Issues

It’s normal for a white or yellowish fluid (not pus) to sometimes ooze from a new piercing and form a crust. Avoid picking at this crust, as it can cause bleeding and further irritation. Typically, the crust will naturally peel off as the piercing heals. Unless specifically instructed by a doctor, avoid applying lotions, oils, perfumes, antibacterial creams, or hydrogen peroxide to your piercing, as these can hinder healing or trap bacteria inside the new opening. Finally, try to avoid sleeping directly on your belly to prevent unnecessary pressure, irritation, migration, and soreness. Using a travel pillow can help by allowing you to position your body so that there is no direct pressure on the piercing.

Navigating Potential Bumps: Risks and Complications

While belly button piercings are a popular form of body modification, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and complications that can arise. One of the most common concerns is infection, which can be more likely in belly button piercings due to their shape, which can trap bacteria. Signs of an infected piercing include increased redness, swelling, pain, warmth around the piercing site, unusual or foul-smelling discharge that may be yellow, green, or pus-like, and sometimes even a fever.

Allergic Reactions

Allergy can also occur, often due to the presence of nickel in some types of jewelry. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, redness, and a rash around the piercing. Choosing hypoallergenic jewelry made from materials like titanium or nickel-free gold can help prevent this.

Rejection or Migration

Another potential issue is rejection or migration, where the body essentially tries to push the foreign object (the jewelry) out. This is more likely to happen if the piercing wasn’t done correctly, if the jewelry is of poor quality or the wrong size, or due to excessive movement or trauma. Signs of rejection or migration can include increased soreness without other signs of infection, the jewelry becoming more visible through the skin, hanging more loosely than before, flaking or peeling skin around the piercing, thinning of the tissue between the entry and exit points, the piercing hole gradually getting bigger, or the formation of a keloid scar.

Keloids

Scarring, including the formation of thick, raised scars known as keloids, is another potential complication. Keloids are more common in individuals who are genetically predisposed to them and can also be triggered by unclean piercing practices, improper aftercare, or allergic reactions to the jewelry, particularly nickel. They typically appear several months after the piercing. In some cases, if the jewelry catches on clothing or other objects, it can lead to tearing of the skin, which might even require stitches. While more common with cartilage piercings, small fluid-filled lumps called granulomas can occasionally form around any piercing site.

It’s important to know when to seek professional medical advice if you suspect a complication. You should consult a doctor if you experience signs of infection, severe or increasing pain, fever or chills, loss of feeling or numbness near the piercing, if the skin around the piercing turns pale or cool, or if the pierced area starts to bleed excessively. Also, seek medical attention if symptoms of a suspected infection do not improve or worsen, if an allergic reaction doesn’t resolve after removing the jewelry, if the piercing site has been injured, or if there is a bad smell coming from the piercing.

Belly Button Piercings in Today’s World: Trends and Popularity

Despite the historical fluctuations in popularity, belly button piercings remain a widely embraced form of self-expression and body modification in the United States. While traditionally more popular among women, there is a growing trend of men opting for navel piercings, possibly influenced by the increasing acceptance of body modifications and more gender-neutral fashion trends. Age-wise, belly button piercings tend to be more prevalent among teenagers and young adults, particularly those between 15 and 30 years old, a period often associated with self-discovery and experimenting with appearance. The prevalence generally decreases in older age groups.

Belly Button Piercing and Body Image Enhancement

Studies suggest that the primary motivation for women to get belly button piercings in contemporary society is often a desire to enhance their body image, and the piercing can indeed lead to improved self-perception. For many, the piercing becomes integrated into their sense of self and can even be viewed as a form of body care that may offer protection against self-harming thoughts.

Cultural Evolution of Navel Piercings in Modern Society

Culturally, the belly button piercing holds a unique position. Unlike some other forms of body modification with deep ancestral roots in specific indigenous cultures, the navel piercing as we know it today is a primarily modern phenomenon, gaining significant traction in the 1990s. It’s notable that it was not traditionally a common practice among the native peoples of any particular nation. However, the belly button ring has carved out its own cultural niche in the new millennium, particularly as a popular accessory in eastern dance forms, most notably belly dance, especially among practitioners in the US and UK.

Spiritual and Symbolic Meanings of Belly Button Piercings

In some spiritual traditions, navel piercings are seen as a way to honor the sacredness of the body and celebrate individuality, believed to enhance one’s connection with divine feminine energy and the creative life force within, and often associated with sensuality, femininity, fertility, and sexual energy. In the broader context of Western society, body piercings, including navel piercings, can also serve as a form of rebellion, self-expression, and a way to mark personal milestones or assert individuality.

Conclusion:

Belly button piercings offer a unique avenue for personal expression, with a debated history and modern resurgence. Understanding types, procedures, studio selection, jewelry, aftercare, and risks ensures a positive experience. Whether for aesthetic appeal, cultural connection, or personal significance, a well-considered and cared-for piercing can be meaningful and enduring.

Source

Wou.Edu

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Wikipedia: Navel piercing history and modern trends