Should You Pierce Your Babies Ears?

When I had my first daughter I was so excited that I wanted to dress her up in pink and make her super girly, including the earrings. We had her ears pierced at 4 months old and although it wasn't such a great experience seeing your little one in pain it did make her look oh so pretty. Until I met someone whose daughter did not have such luck, after having her daughters ears pierced she acquired an infection which caused her much discomfort.

I am from a Hispanic family and having your daughters ears pierced is a big deal, as is the bracelets that give them good luck, called Azabache. When I heard about the infection my friends daughter got I started to do some research on ear piercing and I was flabbergasted as to all the risks. Many of you might think that the risks are low but would you risk it yourself just so your daughter looks pretty?

I have summarized a list of risks and factors to take into consideration before you actually make the decision.

First off the piercing might cause an infection:
If the piercing was put on too tight it can cause redness and swell causing an infection. If the gun used to pierce your child's ear isn't sterilized it can cause an infection as well. Having an infection means your baby might get a fever and you might not even be able to pinpoint the cause of the fever so take them to the doctor immediately.

Swallowing the earring:
As you know babies tend to put whatever they can reach into their tiny little mouths, and if they were to grab one of the earrings and swallow it can get stuck in their throat and cause major problems. Be sure to always check your babies ears if you do put the earrings.

Ripping off the earring:
If they cant get the earring out easily hey will try to take it off abruptly causing them to rip their own ears, it has happened and it is very discomforting and painful to your child.

Allergic reaction:
Babies skin is very sensitive and having an allergic reaction can occur, you will notice them have a rash either where the piercing is or all over their body.

Now take a second and think about your little one, do you want to risk having your baby catch an infection or any other outcome listed above? I know many moms want their babies to look their best or to have people notice them, but what is important is your child's health and well being. They are too little to be worried of appearances and waiting is probably the better choice, which is why my youngest daughters haven't been pierced yet and they are 3 and 1 years of age.
Whatever you choose is up to you, no one can tell you what to do, but at least you know the risks and can be aware of them.