Pierced Ears and Infants: Problems to Watch Out For

The decision to pierce a baby daughters ears is largely a personal one. Sometimes a mother may want to show the world that their precious little girl is in fact, a girl. Others may feel pressured due to social or traditional factors. Regardless of what drives the decision, make sure that the procedure is done safely.

Have the piercing done under sterile conditions, by someone who is qualified to do so. Some doctor's offices do offer this, but they will charge an arm and a leg and try to talk you out of it. I got my daughter's ears pierced at Wal-Mart. Each gun and earring was sterile, and the woman who did the piercing was very kind and gentle with my daughter (who was understandably, very upset). Don't just stop into any old place and expect clean conditions. Do a little research into the cleanliness of the shop first, before you hand your child over.

Clean the earlobes twice daily, turning the jewelry each time (to keep it from sticking to the holes). You can use the solution that the piercer (should have) gave you, or hydrogen peroxide. A cotton swab it best for this, as you can focus directly on the spot you need to clean.

Also, you have to be vigilant in looking for infections. Since an infant (and some toddlers) cannot vocalize that their ear is itchy, sore, or tender, you will have to watch out for them. Some children may tug at their ears when this happens, which is a sign to look for. Signs of an infection include redness, swelling, crusting, pus, and bleeding. In the case of an infection (or the start of one) remove the earring immediately and call you child's doctor.

Another problem with young children and piercing is when they decide to take them out. The child could poke herself with the jewelry, or possibly swallow one or more of it's parts. To that end, some doctors recommend that piercing be put of until the age of four, and sometimes closer to eight. If your child starts to pull at the earrings or remove them, remove them and let the holes close up. You can always have them pierced again when the child is older and more responsible.

Pierced ears can be adorable, but also carry some risk, and a bit of hassle. Make sure you watch out for signs of trouble, and your child's ears will end up fine.