Risks of Body Modification : A Guide For Parents

Navel piercing close up. *Photo by: Gabuchan *Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gabuchan/2009075/ (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you are a parent of a teenager who is considering having a body piercing done then you may be feeling pretty uncomfortable. Body modification is probably one of the main things that parents and teens have trouble seeing eye to eye about. It is usually because of a lack of information. It can be difficult to separate fact from fiction when it comes to body piercing and that can make it impossible to come to an agreement with your teenager. That is why I have put together a guide for parents revealing the truth about the risks of body modification.

It is important that you both understand that no matter how popular body modification has become, the risks involved are very real. Taking the right precautions can help to minimize the risks leading to a happy and healthy body piercing experience, but problems and complications can and do arise so it is important to be prepared. Let's look at the possible risks that come hand in hand with body modification.

• Infection – If you do not properly care for a piercing it can easily become infected which can lead to scarring and blood poisoning. Not only is an infected piercing ugly, but it is a very serious health risk.
• Nerve Damage – If a body piercing is located incorrectly then there is a danger of it being inserted through a nerve which will sever the nerve deadening it to any feeling permanently. In addition, if the piercing hits a major blood vessel then it could lead to excessive bleeding.
• Cross Contamination – If your piercer does not properly sterilize their equipment then you could end up contracting Hepatitis, HIV or other blood borne diseases.
• Keloids – Often for no apparent reason keloid scars (hard knots of scar tissue) can form around a piercing.
• Dental Damage – Oral piercings can cause dental problems such as chipped teeth and worn enamel. There is also the risk of swallowing or inhaling loose jewlry.

In addition to the health concerns, there are other downsides involved including pain. The level of pain involved differs from piercing to piercing so it really is a question of how much you are willing to suffer for the vanity. It is also a big commitment. Piercings need a great deal of after care so you must be prepared to put in the work. Also, you will be unable to donate blood for at least a year following your piercing. Overall, it is important to understand the ramifications and to choose a reputable piercer if you do decide to have a body modification done. It is important to understand that it is something semi permanent.

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