Some parents do not mind piercing their baby’s ears while they are still little, while for others, it is an appalling practice. Regardless of either view, you can get an ear piercing for babies without any pain.
Ear piercing for babies is a controversial topic in many states, including here in the United States. However, in Latin America and Spain, it is a customary practice for baby girls to get their ears pierced after they are born. Many Latin mothers get new gold earring studs for their baby girls.
It is not uncommon to spot them leaving the hospital with their babies wearing them. Getting an ear piercing is a personal choice, whether as a parent or an adolescent. So, how can you get an ear piercing for babies without pain?
Ear piercing for babies without pain
Many parents prefer getting their baby’s ears pierced while they are little because they believe it is less painful and uncomfortable than when they get older. In other cases, new mothers, like those from Latin America and Spain, pierce their baby’s ears because it is a customary norm that boosts traditional values.
Some parents may also use ear piercings as a form of gender identity since it is uncommon for little boys to have small studs in their ears.
Despite the reason, you should consult your doctor on whether it is advisable for your baby since babies are different. If the doctor says your baby’s health is normal and up-to-par, you can confidently go ahead and have the ear piercings.
When is it safe to have your baby’s ears pierced?
Sometimes, you might find a newborn baby leaving the hospital with pierced ears. If you plan to do this, it is advisable to let your doctor know beforehand so that he/she can let you know of the possible complications that may arise.
The doctor may pierce your baby’s ears before you leave the hospital after delivery, or you may choose to do it later, at your pediatrician’s office. Some doctors may recommend other qualified healthcare professionals who can do the job efficiently if they do not have the capacity.
Most medical practitioners advise that new mothers wait until their baby is at least six months to pierce their ears. The process of piercing ears punctures the skin, creating a potential of the piercing to get an infection. Your baby’s immune system is still developing, and the piercing may cause complications, severely affecting your child’s health. As such, it is best to wait until he/she turns six months or better yet until he/she is old enough to make the decision personally.
How to get my baby’s ears pierced without pain
Traditionally, parents got their baby’s ears pierced at a jeweler or the local vendor, and often without anesthesia. Nowadays, it is best to visit your pediatrician or dermatologist to pierce their ears with topical anesthesia. Before going in for the piercing, request your doctor to prescribe topical anesthesia that contains lidocaine derivatives to numb the earlobes. Apply a thick coat of the cream to the earlobes for about 30-60 minutes before the actual ear piercing procedure.
Using ice to numb your earlobes 15-30 minutes before the piercing is also efficient. If you choose to use ice, you have to wrap their ears with plastic wrap or a similar substance because of the discomfort it causes. These tips do not entirely remove the pain, but it will lessen it to a significant amount. The pain after using these methods is similar to the pinch one feels when they go in for an injection.
Tips for getting your baby’s ears pierced without pain
1.Vaccinations
A baby’s immune system has not fully developed and is prone to contacting various germs and bacteria when they come in contact with them. As such, it is best to make sure your baby has all her shots before going in for an ear piercing appointment. The tetanus injections are the most crucial since your baby will come into contact with various metals during this procedure.
2.Get it done by a professional
Choosing where to get your baby’s ears pierced is of the utmost importance. Consult your pediatrician or doctor on which are the best locations for baby piercings. It is also vital to check their hygiene standards to avoid any cases of contamination. For instance, they should always wash their hands before handling any equipment as well as wear a fresh pair of gloves when dealing with new patients. Proper sterilization of the piercing equipment is also an essential consideration.
3.Numb the earlobes
Whether you opt to use numbing cream or ice, numbing the affected area in advance helps a lot in making the procedure less painful. Numb the area at least 45 minutes before getting the ear piercings. Remember to use plastic wrap when using ice to avoid a scenario where the ice slips out of place.
4.Get the piercings at the same time
If it is possible, get two qualified technicians to make the piercings simultaneously. As a result, your baby will not have time to react and fuss about the piercing since it will be complete. By doing one at a time, the baby may wiggle and cry, making it harder for the second piercing. Doing them simultaneously may be more painful, but it is faster and less room for mistakes.
Choose small and stylish stud earrings since your child is likely to fidget with that area because of the discomfort. More so, your baby may snag dangling ears, making it more painful for them. It also helps to choose hypoallergenic jewelry to avoid any allergic reactions. Many people prefer gold or stainless steel earrings, but white gold consists of plated metals, which may cause a skin reaction on your baby.
5.Post-piercing care
Ear infections are quite common after getting piercings. As such, keep your child’s hands away from the piercings to avoid any complications. Regularly wipe down your child’s ears with surgical spirit on a piece of cotton.
When bathing, prevent shampoo, soap, and conditioner, from coming into contact with the piercing. Make sure you take off his/her clothes slowly, not to accidentally nudge on her ears. Avoid taking her for swimming as the chlorine may have adverse effects on the piercings. If you notice the pierced area looks unusual or is getting an infection, take her to the doctor immediately.
Conclusion
Earrings give a baby a sophisticated and trendy look. If you choose to pierce her ears, ensure you go to a hygienic and professional healthcare facility. Proper after-care of the pierced ears helps in making a quick and less painful recovery.
Follow the piercing technician’s instructions to the latter and seek advice from other parents who have had their baby’s ears pierced without pain. You need all the information you can get before going in for the appointment.
For more piercing tips, visit this page for more or visit our home page for more kids jewelry fashion.
Tiger is a fashion&jewelry lover. He is also a fashion jewelry manufacturer that help thousands of small business to grow and also do business with some big fashion jewelry brands. He is a truly metal expert and he will share some information you are looking for.