Generally, if you got pierced at least 9 months ago, your piercing is probably healed—but you still want to check. If the piercing never healed, or if the hole becomes red, inflamed, or irritated at any time during your pregnancy, take your jewelry out—you can always get it re-pierced later. [2] X Research source
Avoid pantyhose, leotards, and leggings that can snag your jewelry and cause it to rip out. Shirts with buttons down the front can also snag on your jewelry. If your jewelry does happen to snag on clothing and cause the piercing to tear, it’s probably best to take it out at that point. If over-the-counter remedies don’t work or your piercing becomes infected, your doctor can prescribe an appropriate antibiotic. [4] X Research source
A simple barbell without any charms or sharp edges is probably your best bet.
Sometimes people like to kiss a pregnant belly, but make sure they don’t kiss your piercing—germs in the person’s saliva could cause an infection.
As long as your piercing is healed, you don’t really need to follow any special care regimen just because you’re pregnant. However, if the hole stretches or tears, it’s best to treat it as though it were a new piercing just to be on the safe side. Don’t use towels or washcloths, either to wash or dry the piercing site or your hands. They can introduce bacteria.
Even if it doesn’t become infected, it’s also possible that your piercing will become uncomfortable as your belly grows. If that happens, you might feel more comfortable taking it out. [9] X Research source
If you’re not in contact with your original piercer, any certified and licensed body piercer can do this for you. Just look for reputable piercers locally, then call and let them know what you need.
If you do end up inadvertently touching something else, like your phone or the counter, simply wash your hands again. You want to make sure you don’t introduce any bacteria.
If you’re having a hard time doing this while standing, it might be easier if you lie down. [14] X Research source
Some designs allow you to slide the tube over your jewelry before you slide the ring out. That way the placeholder will already be there when you remove your jewelry. [16] X Research source There are also specialty maternity barbells that are designed to flex as your belly grows. [17] X Research source However, according to the Association of Professional Piercers, these products aren’t made with safe materials. If you see something you’re interested in, show it to your piercer and ask if it’s safe for you to use. [18] X Research source
This is your best option if you don’t like the look or feel of a placeholder for your jewelry but you want to make sure the piercing stays open during your pregnancy. Once your jewelry is removed, your piercing might close—especially if you got it within the last year.
