Piercing is one of the oldest and most practiced forms of body modification. This practice has expanded to many different areas of the body, including the belly button. Belly button piercing can take longer to heal. Knowing what to expect and how to care for the piercing can help you avoid complications.

Below are 4 Ways to handle  Belly Button Piercing:

Choose your piercer Wisely

When you get a piercing, you’re at risk for catching a bloodborne diseases, such as hepatitis C. The degree of risk depends on where you go to get the piercing and the standards of the place and person performing the piercing. This is why choosing your piercer is so important. Make sure you visit the shop ahead of time so you can get a feel for the place. It should be clean, well-lit, and fully licensed.

For The Piercing, ask About Their Sterilization Process

While you’re at the shop, ask the piercer about their process and the sterilization methods they use. Generally, piercers use and autoclave to kill any possible bacteria or other pathogens on the equipment. An autoclave is typically used to sterilize tools that are reuseable, such as opening and closing pliers for body jewelry. All piercing needles should come in sealed packages. This means they haven’t been used on anyone else. It’s important to not share needles. Doing so increases your risk for bloodborne disease. Your piercer should also wear disposable gloves at all times.

Avoid Piercing Guns

If the shop uses piercing guns, cancel any appointment you may have made. Reuseable piercing guns can transmit bodily fluids across customers. They can also cause local tissue damage during the piercing process.

By and large, choosing to get a piercing is  a big decision that requires a lot of aftercare. It can be done safely as long as you make sure to keep the area clean and free of bacteria. Taking care of your general health can help you heal faster and reduce risk for developing complications.