Ear piercing is a traditional method which is rocked back to ancient times, and it is also a family choice as well. Although toddlers get their piercing without knowing the actual reason. Nowadays, it has become a cosmetic procedure which is happen for both girls and boys (yes, in some cultures boys also get their ears pierced).
Mostly, new parents think about this question and start looking for a painless method as well. The answer to your question is: first, you can have your child’s ear pierced whenever you want, but if you want to move forward with logic, tradition, and medical reasons, then this article is for you.
Importance of Ear Piercing in Children
Traditional
In India, the process of ear piercing is known as Karnavedha, which is one of the siteen traditional observed during childhood. The ritual is performed by blessing the child at an early age, and in some places it is celebrated like a naming ceremony. Traditionally, this sacred process is performed when a baby is around 6 to 7 months old. But it can be done after they cross their 3 month birth. It is believed to stimulate acupressure in the points of the lobe, which helps to improve mental focus, brain development, and also balance body energies.
Medical
As per pediatricians, it is a safe method that can be performed at any age. The comfort and the healing depend on the age and the method used. Some pediatricians recommend that families wait until their baby’s initial vaccination is done, so that their immune system can become more capable of providing some protection. As per pediatricians, safety measures should be considered by the parents so that their infant does not face immense pain or other issues.
- Do not take your child to someone who does not use a sterile method for ear piercing. Some reputed clinics provide this service using a safe method, and an ear-piercing gun is one of the methods.
- Surgical steel, titanium, or gold are some of the material which reduces the risks of allergies or infection in children. But remember, sterling silver should be avoided, as it contains nickel, which can cause severe itching, redness, or infection.
- Some children are prone to develop keloids (thick scar tissue), and this commonly happens in older children. That is reason, pediatritians recommend that parents go for ear piercing at an early age to reduce the risk of scar tissue.
Logic
Infants and toddler ten be less bothered by minor procedures, and as their bodies are developing, they heal quickly too. Although it is a personal choice, it is best to let them receive their first routine set of immunisations. For their safety, it is best to boost their immune system first, because at the beginning, they are highly vulnerable to catching an infection. So, yes, logically, medically, and traditionally, the best time to get your child’s ears pierced is after 6 months.
When to avoid?
After their first birthday because till then they develop motor skills, and they just pick things without even thinking. So, if you pierce their ear after age 1, then out of curiosity, they might pull the earring and harm themselves. They are at high risk of accidental snags, tearing the earlobe, and harm from rough play; most importantly, you can not keep their hands clean all the time, so their habit of touching things increases the risk of infection. Wait until they are 2.5 or 3 years old.
Now the question is, what method should be used?
Although there are several method which are used, like visiting a jeweller or some random shops, the safest method is visiting a paediatrician for ear piercing. Wait, let me convince you, because this is one of the safest methods and easiest procedures you can choose for your child.
- Firstly, they use high-grade hygiene and sterile equipment, which prevents your child from infection, and obviously, their safety is your priority.
- Second, for an easy process, they use a numbing cream which numb that specific area without causing any skin reaction. With this, your child does not feel anything, and without crying or tantrums, the process can be done.
- Child psychologists at Cradle Children Hospital know how to distract a child through play or words, so your child doesn’t even realise that an ear-piercing gun is used. Don’t worry, they are certified, and their knowledge assures that the process is performed adequately.
So, are you convinced, or should we add more points?
Aftercare tips
Just like adults, child ear piercings also need some care, as this is also a type of body modification. So here are some tips-
- Apply antibiotic ointment recommended by the doctor.
- Medical professionals consider rotating earrings after ear piercing to be outdated and harmful advice. Although you can do it, don’t use dirty hands.
- Do not remove or change the earring for 6 weeks. Let your ear settle with the method first, and heal the wound.
Note for parents from Cradle Children Hospital.
As parents, this might be exciting for you to think about piercing your child’s ear, and you must be thinking about how your baby is going to look after that. Don’t let your excitement go, but in between, make an informed decision and choose a pediatrician for ear piercing. You need to make sure that your child receives the safest method. And if your child is prone to infection or any skin reaction, they are the best choice.
Visit Cradle Children Hospital and let your child experience the safest and painless method!
