Paediatrician or Trusted Family Jeweller?

You can get your baby's ears pierced at either the paediatrician or your local jeweller. No matter who you pick, there are a few precautions you need to take. First, observe the surroundings at the clinic or jeweller's and make sure it is hygienic.

There are a few basic hygiene requirements that need to be followed before and after the piercing procedure. If you get it done at the jewellers, then make sure the person is experienced and knows the procedure. Otherwise it will be painful for your baby.

A Shot or a Poke to Attractive Ears?

You can get this procedure done by piercing the earlobe with a gold wire or a gunshot.

The jeweller or doctor will pierce the lobe with a gold wire. This wire is then knotted and stays in the ear for at least six weeks. A needle is not used since the infants' ear-lobes are extremely tender.

The gun involves a quick shot that fixes a gold stud on each lobe. The gun however cannot be sterilised thoroughly. In the case of infants, piercing with the wire is advisable.

Safety Over Vanity

In the rush and excitement of ear-piercing, most parents overlook the possibility of an infection or reaction. Here are a few pre-procedure precautions to keep in mind:

• Make sure that the doctor or jeweller cleans the lobe with spirit and anti-septic cream.
• Make sure the gun is sterilised thoroughly. It has a few plastic parts and these have to be cleaned thoroughly to avoid the risk of Hepatitis infection. Question the jeweller or doctor about sterilisation techniques.
• Ensure that the doctor or jeweller sterilises his hands and uses gloves.
• Make sure that the wire or stud is pure 24K gold. Stay away from nickel or lead as this will cause an infection.
• Make sure that the doctor or jeweller pierces the centre of the lobe.

If you have a history of Keloids in your family, then do not pierce your infant's ears. Wait till she is older and consult with your doctor before the procedure.