Anatomy of the Navel
The navel, also known as the belly button, is a small, round depression in the abdomen. It is the site where the umbilical cord, which connects a baby to its mother in the womb, was attached. The navel is made up of skin, muscle, and connective tissue. It is usually located about halfway between the top and bottom of the abdomen.
The navel is a common site for piercings. However, it is important to be aware of the anatomy of the navel before getting a piercing. This will help to ensure that the piercing is done safely and correctly.
The Skin of the Navel
The skin of the navel is thin and delicate. It is also very sensitive, which is why it is important to use a sharp needle when piercing the navel. The skin of the navel is also prone to infection, so it is important to keep the piercing clean.
The Muscles of the Navel
The muscles of the navel are responsible for holding the navel in place. These muscles are also responsible for moving the navel when the abdomen is contracted. The muscles of the navel are relatively weak, which is why it is important to be careful when piercing the navel.
The Connective Tissue of the Navel
The connective tissue of the navel is made up of collagen and elastin. These proteins give the navel its strength and flexibility. The connective tissue of the navel also helps to protect the navel from infection.
| Layer | Function |
|---|---|
| Skin | Protects the navel from infection |
| Muscles | Hold the navel in place and move it when the abdomen is contracted |
| Connective tissue | Gives the navel its strength and flexibility |
Equipment and Materials
Before embarking on this procedure, it is essential to gather the necessary equipment and materials to ensure a safe and successful piercing experience.
Piercing Needle
The most critical component is a sterile piercing needle. Choose a needle specifically designed for navel piercings and made of high-quality surgical steel or titanium. These materials are hypoallergenic and resistant to infection. The needle should be sharp to minimize discomfort during insertion.
Jewelry
The jewelry you select should be made of a compatible material, such as surgical steel, titanium, or gold. The barbell should be the appropriate length to fit snugly around your navel without excessive pressure or movement. Choose a design that complements your style and provides comfort during the healing process.
Additional Materials
In addition to the primary equipment, you will need the following:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Antiseptic solution | To sterilize the piercing site and equipment |
| Cotton balls | To apply antiseptic and clean the piercing |
| Gauze pads | To cover the piercing during the healing process |
| Gloves | To protect your hands from infection |
| Ruler or measuring tape | To determine the correct length of the barbell |
Preparation and Hygiene
Pre-Piercing Hygiene
Prior to the piercing, meticulous hygiene is paramount. Thoroughly cleanse the navel area with an antibacterial soap, paying close attention to the area where the piercing will be placed. Rinse the area well with water and pat dry with a clean towel. By sanitizing the skin, you minimize the risk of infection.
Materials Preparation
Gather all necessary materials in advance to avoid interruptions during the piercing process. You will need:
- Sterilized piercing needle (14 or 16 gauge)
- Navel piercing jewelry (ensure it’s made of hypoallergenic material like titanium or surgical steel)
- Cotton balls, swabs, or gauze
- Medical-grade saline solution or wound cleanser
- Antibacterial soap
- Clean towel or paper towels
Sterilization Procedure
Sterilization is crucial to prevent infection. Here’s how to sterilize your equipment:
- Immerse the piercing needle in boiling water for at least 10 minutes.
- Allow the needle to cool completely before handling.
- Wipe all other materials with rubbing alcohol, including jewelry, cotton balls, and swabs.
By following these sterilization procedures, you minimize the risk of introducing bacteria into the piercing site.
Piercing Techniques
Needle Piercing
This method involves using a hollow needle to create the piercing. The needle is inserted through the skin at the desired location and then removed, leaving the piercing jewelry in place.
Punch Piercing
With punch piercing, a small, hollow tool is used to remove a circular piece of skin. The jewelry is then inserted into the hole created by the punch.
Staple Piercing
In the staple piercing technique, a special stapler-like device is used to create the piercing. The stapler inserts the piercing jewelry and closes it in place with a small staple.
Dermal Piercing
Dermal piercings are created by inserting a small, flat-backed piercing into the subcutaneous layer of the skin. The jewelry is then secured in place with a small disc that sits flush with the skin’s surface.
Jewelry Selection
The type of jewelry you choose for your navel piercing will depend on your personal style and preference. However, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind when making your selection:
1. Choose high-quality jewelry made from implant-grade materials, such as titanium, surgical steel, or 14k gold. These materials are less likely to cause irritation or infection.
2. Avoid jewelry with sharp edges or protruding parts that could snag on clothing or other objects.
3. Select jewelry that is the appropriate size and gauge for your piercing. The gauge refers to the thickness of the jewelry, and the size refers to the length and diameter.
4. Consider the curve of your navel when choosing a barbell. The barbell should be curved to fit snugly against your body.
Shape and Style
The shape and style of the jewelry you choose should complement the curve of your navel and your personal taste. Some popular options include curved barbells, circular barbells, and captive bead rings. Curbed barbells are the most common type of jewelry for navel piercings, as they provide a secure and comfortable fit.
| Jewelry Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Curved Barbell | A curved barbell is a piece of jewelry that consists of a straight barbell with a curved end on one or both sides. The curved end is designed to fit snugly against the curve of the navel. |
| Circular Barbell | A circular barbell is a piece of jewelry that consists of a circular barbell with a ball or bead on each end. The circular barbell is designed to fit snugly around the navel. |
| Captive Bead Ring | A captive bead ring is a piece of jewelry that consists of a ring with a small bead that is held in place by tension. The captive bead ring is designed to fit snugly around the navel. |
Aftercare and Maintenance
Daily Cleaning
Clean your navel piercing twice a day with a sterile saline solution. To do this, saturate a cotton ball or gauze pad with the solution and gently wipe the piercing and surrounding area. Rinse thoroughly with water, and pat dry with a clean paper towel or cloth.
Avoid Irritants
Avoid using harsh soaps, lotions, perfumes, or powders on or near the piercing. These substances can irritate the skin and delay healing.
Cover When Necessary
If you wear tight or restrictive clothing, or engage in activities like swimming or sports, you may want to cover the piercing with a bandage to protect it from friction and snagging.
See a Piercer or Doctor if Needed
If you experience any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge, seek medical attention immediately. It is also essential to see a professional if the piercing becomes embedded in the skin or if you have any other concerns about its healing process.
Jewelry Change
Do not change the jewelry in your navel piercing for at least 6-8 weeks, or until it is fully healed. Once healed, it is recommended to use only high-quality jewelry made from surgical steel, titanium, or gold to avoid irritation or allergic reactions.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
It is generally not recommended to pierce your navel during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The hormonal changes and physical stresses of these periods can affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
Healing Timeline
The healing timeline for a navel piercing can vary depending on individual factors such as aftercare, overall health, and anatomy. However, here is a general overview of the healing process:
Week 1-2
Initial swelling and pain: Expect some swelling, redness, and pain around the piercing. Clean the area regularly and avoid touching or moving the jewelry.
Week 3-4
Formation of a crust: A protective crust may form over the piercing. Do not pick or remove it, as this can delay healing.
Week 5-8
Decreased swelling and pain: The swelling and pain should gradually subside, making the piercing more comfortable.
Week 9-12
Formation of a fistula: A fistula, or a permanent channel, forms around the piercing. This strengthens the piercing and minimizes the risk of rejection.
Month 3-6
Complete healing: Most navel piercings are considered fully healed after 3-6 months. However, some people may experience occasional discomfort or flare-ups during this time.
Year 1
Stabilization: The piercing should be stable and fully healed after a year. It is important to continue practicing good piercing care to maintain its health.
| Healing Stage | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Initial swelling and pain | Week 1-2 |
| Formation of a crust | Week 3-4 |
| Decreased swelling and pain | Week 5-8 |
| Formation of a fistula | Week 9-12 |
| Complete healing | Month 3-6 |
| Stabilization | Year 1 |
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues while piercing your own navel, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Difficulty inserting the needle: Ensure the needle is sharp and the skin is properly taut. Use a piercing clamp to hold the skin firmly.
- Pain or discomfort: Use a topical anesthetic to numb the area before piercing. If the pain persists, stop the process and seek medical attention.
- Bleeding: Apply pressure to the piercing site with a sterile gauze pad. If bleeding does not subside, consult a healthcare professional.
- Infection: Keep the piercing clean and dry. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the piercing, and avoid using harsh chemicals or soaps.
- Migration: If the piercing moves out of alignment, it may be necessary to remove and repierce it.
Complications
Although piercing is generally a safe procedure, there are potential complications to be aware of:
Allergic Reaction
Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to the piercing jewelry, resulting in redness, swelling, and itching.
Infection
Infection can occur if the piercing is not properly cared for. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and discharge.
Nerve Damage
In rare cases, piercing the navel can damage nearby nerves, leading to numbness or tingling sensations.
Scarring
Scarring can occur if the piercing is not properly done or if there is excessive trauma to the area.
Keloid Formation
Keloids are raised, excessive scar tissue that can develop after a piercing.
Embeddment
If the piercing jewelry is too small or the skin is too tight, the jewelry may become embedded in the skin.
Rejection
Rejection occurs when the body attempts to expel the piercing jewelry. This can result in pain, swelling, and redness.
Migration
The piercing may move out of alignment over time, especially if it is not properly cared for.
Abscess Formation
In severe cases, an abscess (a collection of pus) can form at the piercing site.
Piercing Aftercare
After piercing your navel, it is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. Clean the piercing twice a day with a mild soap and water solution, and pat it dry with a clean towel. Avoid using harsh soaps or perfumes, as these can irritate the piercing.
It is also important to avoid touching or playing with the piercing, as this can introduce bacteria. If the piercing becomes red, swollen, or painful, it is important to see a doctor or piercer as soon as possible.
The healing process for a navel piercing can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months. During this time, it is important to be patient and to follow the aftercare instructions carefully. With proper care, your piercing will heal quickly and without any complications.
| Week | What to expect |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | The piercing will be sore and swollen. |
| 3-4 | The swelling will start to go down and the pain will subside. |
| 5-6 | The piercing will start to heal and the skin around it will become less red. |
| 7-8 | The piercing will be fully healed. |
How To Pierce Your Own Navel
Piercing your own navel is a relatively simple procedure that can be done at home with a few basic supplies. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid infection or other complications.
Here are the steps on how to pierce your own navel:
- Gather your supplies. You will need a sterile piercing needle, a sterile piercing gun, a sterile cotton ball, and a sterile bandage.
- Clean the area around your navel with soap and water. This will help to remove any dirt or bacteria that could cause infection.
- Mark the spot where you want to pierce your navel. You can use a pen or a marker to do this.
- Insert the piercing needle into the marked spot. Be sure to insert the needle at a slight angle so that the piercing will be in the center of your navel.
- Push the piercing gun through the needle. This will create a hole in your navel and insert the piercing jewelry.
- Remove the piercing gun and the needle. Be sure to hold the piercing jewelry in place with your fingers so that it does not fall out.
- Clean the area around the piercing with a sterile cotton ball. This will help to prevent infection.
- Bandage the piercing. This will help to keep the piercing clean and protected.
It is important to keep the piercing clean and dry for the first few weeks after it is pierced. You should clean the piercing twice a day with soap and water. You should also avoid swimming or soaking the piercing for the first few weeks.
If you experience any pain, redness, or swelling around the piercing, you should see a doctor immediately. These could be signs of infection.
People Also Ask
What is the best way to pierce your own navel?
The best way to pierce your own navel is to follow the steps outlined in the article above. It is important to use sterile supplies and to keep the piercing clean and dry for the first few weeks after it is pierced.
What are the risks of piercing your own navel?
The risks of piercing your own navel include infection, bleeding, and scarring. It is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid these risks.
How long does it take for a navel piercing to heal?
A navel piercing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks to heal. It is important to keep the piercing clean and dry during this time to promote healing.
Can I change the jewelry in my navel piercing myself?
Yes, you can change the jewelry in your navel piercing yourself once it is fully healed. It is important to use sterile jewelry and to follow the instructions carefully to avoid infection.
