Is it safe to have a belly button piercing while pregnant?

It is not advised to have the belly button pierced while pregnant because as the belly grows and the skin stretches the new piercing could stretch too. The newly pierced navel may not be able to heal, it could become infected and may not heal appropriately.

If you have had the belly-button ring for a while and it has healed properly, there are minimal risks of infection. Keep in mind though, that the piercing could become painful as the stomach grows. Depending on the size of the baby, replacing the metal ring with a “sleeper” made of a plastic-type material may be needed. Most women keep their ring, with little or no complications.

The risk of infection

Dirty needles can cause the spread of disease and infection; this is of most concern with health care providers. The risk of contracting HIV or hepatitis B is greater if unsanitary piercing is performed. If you think that there is a possibility that you may have been at risk, discuss your concerns with your physician. If undetected, chances that infection or diseases could be passed on to the baby during birth increase.

Taking proper precautions

Parlors must follow all safety precautions, gloves, sterile supplies, and new unopened jewelry should be observed. It is also important to inform the tech that you are pregnant. It is also recommended that contact information for the tech be taken as a precaution. It is important to know how to reach the tech is concerns or problems should arise.

There are several signs to look for when monitoring for infection. If the area becomes red and swollen, this could be the first stage of possible infection. More serious infections could begin to pus and become painful. If any of these conditions occur, to prevent more serious complications, inform your doctor or health care provider immediately.

As with any other concerns, consult your physician for additional information.