Summary: After pregnancy, a lot of women find that their belly button piercing is stretched. However, there are numerous ways to fix this issue. In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to correct a stretched belly button piercing after pregnancy.
1. Wait for the Piercing to Heal
One of the most important things to do if you have a stretched belly button piercing after pregnancy is to wait for it to heal. Usually, piercings need at least six to eight weeks to heal. After this period, the piercing may become tighter, and the stretching aspect may reduce. However, it’s important to give your body enough time to heal before trying any other corrective measures. Make sure that you avoid any physical activities or handling the area around the piercing to prevent any further damage.
The more rest and care you give the piercing, the quicker it heals. Infected piercings take longer to the heal, thus it’s important to observe the reaction of the wound as it heals. If there is an infection, seek medical help immediately.
If after a long resting period, the piercing has not reverted to its original shape, you can consider other options such as going to see a professional piercer.
2. Consult with a Professional Piercer
A great way to fix a stretched belly button piercing after pregnancy is to visit a professional piercer. These professionals are experts when it comes to body piercings and will give you the best advice and help on the matter. A professional piercer can offer various options depending on the current situation and know the best methods to fix them.
One of the options a piercer can advise is the possibility of downsizing the jewelry. For example, if you had a larger gauge during pregnancy, they could switch to a smaller gauge, and this could result in the jewelry fitting more comfortably. They can also change the type of jewelry being worn and recommend the best material depending on the current state of the piercing.
Another option that professional piercers can undertake is a process known as dermal punching. This procedure involves puncturing your skin with a special tool, and they will help make your piercing hole wider. This corrects the stretched piercing and improves how the piece of jewelry sits around the belly button itself. Do note that dermal piercing has to be done by a professional, be sure to choose the right piercer with good hygiene standards and experienced in performing this particular procedure.
3. Use Tapes or Specific Devices
If you choose to save up on a visit to a piercer, purchasing tapes or devices such as Tegaderm can help you with stretching issues. These are medical-grade coverings that provide necessary support for your piercing during healing. Taping your piercing requires patience and precision, ensure that you are doing it properly to avoid incidents.
Other products include rod-shaped devices that hold your navel in place while shaping around your midriff. However, remember never to purchase these items online, always ask for advice from medical professionals or reputable piercing studios. It’s important to have the right materials without any chance of further damage to your piercing or skin.
The use of scars gel is also another alternative. Scars are common after a piercing heals but using specialized creams can improve the texture and appearance of stretched scar tissue around the belly button piercing. Take extra precautions to ensure that you only apply the recommended amount and avoid applying it directly onto the wound.
4. Clean and Maintain Your Piercing
Cleaning and maintaining the piercing is a fundamental part of maintaining a healthy piercing. Ensuring that the wound is free from dirt and bacteria would aid quick healing. Warm water or saltwater can be used for cleaning as well as some medical-grade application to prevent infections.
It’s important to practice good hygiene and avoid applying unnecessary pressure or force, especially during the recovery period. Wear comfortable clothing or avoid wearing tight clothing around that area until the piercing has fully healed. You can also add a salt paste using fine sea salt mixed into warm water; apply this to a cotton ball before dabbing it gently against the site of perforation.
Maintaining your piercing also requires avoiding sleeping on your stomach and being cautious while engaging in physical activities that may cause irritation to the belly button.
5. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will contribute to a faster healing time for your piercings. Eating a healthy diet, reducing stress and getting enough sleep is a great way to speed up the recovery process and improve your overall health. Drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration would also ensure that the piercing heals adequately.
Engaging in consistent exercise routines would also improve the blood flow around the piercing and promote faster wound healing. However, do note that, during the early stages of recovery after pregnancy, it’s essential to reduce contact with areas that could lead to sudden trauma
Avoid further irritating the piercing by using drugs, smoking, or consuming alcohol. These substances can weaken the immune system and delay the healing process.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, a stretched belly button piercing after pregnancy sometimes appears inevitable; however, there are numerous ways to counter the problem. Waiting for the piercing to heal and consulting with professional piercers would prevent further complications.
Cleaning and maintaining the piercing, using tapes or prescribed devices, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle would all aid fast healing and proper recovery. Remember to always be gentle with the piercing, give it enough time, and avoid any activities that might cause further damage.
The tips shared in this article would ensure that your belly button piercing is restored to its original state while keeping your overall health in check.