Your belly piercing hole could be getting bigger due to a few reasons, primarily related to migration/rejection, infection, trauma, or unsuitable jewelry.
Here's a breakdown of potential causes:
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Migration/Rejection: This is the most common reason. Your body might be pushing the piercing out, treating it as a foreign object.
- The piercing jewelry appears closer to the surface of the skin.
- The skin between the entry and exit points thins.
- The hole visibly enlarges.
- Constant soreness or irritation is present.
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Infection: An infection can weaken the surrounding tissue, causing the piercing hole to expand.
- Look for redness, swelling, pus, pain, and a foul odor.
- Seek medical attention if you suspect an infection.
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Trauma or Irritation: Snagging the jewelry on clothing, bumping it, or sleeping on it can irritate the piercing and cause the hole to stretch.
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Jewelry Issues:
- Heavy jewelry: Can pull on the piercing and gradually enlarge the hole.
- Incorrect jewelry size or material: Using jewelry that's too small or made of a material you're sensitive to (like nickel) can cause irritation and enlargement.
What to do:
- Assess the situation: Examine the piercing closely for signs of migration, infection, or irritation.
- Consult a professional piercer: They can evaluate the piercing and advise on the best course of action.
- See a doctor: If you suspect an infection, a doctor can prescribe antibiotics.
- Proper aftercare: Follow your piercer's aftercare instructions diligently, even if the piercing seems healed.
- Jewelry change: Switch to lighter, high-quality jewelry (like implant-grade titanium or surgical steel) if appropriate, after consulting with a piercer.
Ultimately, if your belly piercing hole is noticeably getting bigger, it's crucial to address the underlying cause to prevent further issues and potential rejection.
