Except for my ears, of course. My friends would probably tell you I'm the last person they'd expect to see in a tattoo or body-piercing studio. In fact, I've never been a huge fan of multiple piercings or tattoos, although I think it's fine for those who enjoy it and feel it expresses their personality and/or enhances their relationships. However, over the last few months, I became increasingly curious about piercings, and began to think of getting one of my own. Go for something routine, like the navel? Not for me! Why not go for the gusto and try a nipple!
At A Glance Author Chicago Newbie When It just happened Artist Dave Studio Rising Phoenix Tattoo and Body Piercing Location Addison, IL There are a number of personal reasons why I decided to do it, but I guess to sum it up, it was a "coming of age" experience for me (at 34, mind you!). I've finally reached an age where I feel I'm at my most beautiful, most comfortable with my sexuality, and happy with my professional and personal successes. For those of you still in your 20s – just wait, it gets better! I wanted to do something just for me, that no one else would know about (well, almost no one!), that re-affirmed my femininity and had a few pleasurable side benefits to boot:) So, 3 days ago, to celebrate my 34th birthday, I had my left nipple pierced. It's beautiful - I love it!
I want to sincerely thank everyone who has submitted photos or stories on BME. It was so helpful to learn how to choose a studio, know what to expect during the process, and understand the healing period. I'm a bit anal-retentive when it comes to researching things, so I spent quite a bit of time on this and a few other select sites to get as much info as I could. I know I'll be back frequently to look up stuff on aftercare.
The only person I told beforehand didn't want to go with me (thanks a lot!), so I was very nervous about going by myself. I've never been in a tattoo/piercing shop before, so I was sure I'd stick out like a sore thumb. But, as soon as I walked in, a nice guy stepped out to help me, and when I told him what I wanted, he just proceeded to give me a consent form, check my I.D. (yeah, make me feel a little better!), and show me jewelry, like it was no big deal. I had also taken a small amount of Xanax about 20 minutes before, which definitely calmed my nerves. DISCLAIMER: I do not condone illegally obtained (i.e. "borrowed") medication! Please only take meds that are prescribed for you by your doctor, using appropriate dosages. What I'm saying is that IF you are currently taking a prescribed anti-anxiety medication under the care of a physician, it may be beneficial to you to find out how quickly it is absorbed in to the bloodstream and plan to take it so that the most be neficial effects occur as you begin your piercing experience.
Anyway, I had my heart set on a barbell, but was told that they only pierce with rings since they believe rings heal and resist infection better. I wasn't thrilled about that, but appreciated their concern about safety and my health. With their help, I decided on a 14-gauge 1/2" steel CBR with a bezel-set emerald-colored gem. They encouraged me to come back in a few months and let them change my jewelry for the first time. I didn't get her name, but there was a sweet young girl who was incredibly helpful and patient with me – I must have asked her a million questions! She was really nice and explained about the different sizes and metals. She made me feel really comfortable, and I didn't feel rushed at all.
After taking my money (oh yeah, forgot about that...), my piercer, Dave, led me to a small private room in the back, and I was quite relieved that I didn't have to bear it all in front of everyone. I had already mentally prepared myself for taking off my shirt and bra in front of a total stranger, but he said I could keep my shirt on, but just take my arm out of the sleeve on the side I was getting pierced. I also got to keep my bra on – he said as long as when I took out my boob it could swing freely and hang naturally, it was fine. Yippee! That definitely helped. He made a point of showing me all the instruments still in their sterilization wrappers and asked me if I was ready. Yes! He marked me while I was standing up, and then I sat and reclined back to be pierced. The clamp didn't hurt nearly as much as I expected. After reading through many other experiences, I thought it would be just awful, but it really wasn't. When he put the needle through, it was excruc iatingly painful for literally, 2 seconds. So yes, if someone asks, "did it hurt?" it definitely did, but 2 seconds in the whole grand scheme of your life is nothing compared to the excitement and satisfaction you have when it's over. As soon as the jewelry was through, which was about 2 more seconds, I felt no pain at all. I stood up to look in the mirror, and it was perfect! The placement was just right (he mentioned how important it was to pierce at the base of the nipple to minimize the impact on milk ducts for breastfeeding), and that sparkly green gem was really cool. I gave him a tip, he gave me aftercare instructions, and I was on my way.
I needed to stop at the drug store on the way home, and I felt so smug walking through the aisles – hee hee, I have this little secret! I had a bit of tenderness that evening, and a little bit of blood crusted around the holes, but nothing that bothered me too much. I was relieved to find out it was quite easy to rotate the ring while cleaning it in the shower. That got rid of any crustiness, and it's been ooze-free since then. While it's still a little tender, it seems to be healing up quite nicely, and the whole experience was not nearly as scary or disgusting as I imagined.
So, if you think you're a little outside the stereotypical piercing demographic, think again – my guess is there's a ton of folks out there from all different walks of life who are pierced... you just can't see where! If you want to do it – do it! The only person it matters to is you. Good luck!