Belly Button Piercing: What You Need to Know

This piercing, like most types, depends on the client’s anatomy. The piercing can only be performed if the anatomical conditions allow for proper healing. In some cases, alternatives exist (which we will discuss later). Otherwise, to avoid issues such as rejection or poor healing, the piercer may refuse to perform the piercing to ensure the client’s health is not compromised.

In addition to the classic navel piercing (or Navel Piercing), we can distinguish several types, such as the Inverse Navel, Double Navel, Multi Navel, and Horizontal Navel.

Located on the lower part of the navel, this piercing is performed similarly to the classic navel but in reverse, piercing the lower belly fold above or below the navel.

Combines the navel piercing and the anti-navel piercing, creating symmetry with two pieces of jewelry positioned above and below the navel.

Unlike vertical styles, the horizontal navel piercing crosses the skin above or below the navel in a horizontal direction. It is a less common option that offers a different aesthetic compared to the traditional vertical piercing. In this case, although the area is still the navel, it is a “Surface Piercing,” meaning a bar with 90° angles placed under the skin.

In various cultural traditions, the navel is seen as a symbol of strength, beauty, maturity, and courage, as well as a highly seductive element. Consider, for example, its central role in the artistic expression of belly dancing or in the unique design of the sari, the traditional garment of women in India, which exposes this specific area of the body.

The association of the navel with sexual attractiveness has deep historical roots, as demonstrated by the myth of Omphale in Greek mythology, whose name derives from “omphalós,” the ancient Greek term for “navel,” and who was known for her seductive power.

The navel piercing is performed by piercing the skin around the navel to insert a piece of jewelry, which at TattooLab is made of ASTM F-136 Titanium or other biocompatible materials to minimize the risk of infections.

The process must be done in a sterile environment — like the one we have in our studio — and by an experienced professional. After marking the precise spot for the piercing, the piercer uses a needle to create the hole and inserts the chosen jewelry. Following the piercer’s aftercare instructions is crucial to promoting proper healing and preventing infections.

We don’t pierce pregnant women. If you already have a piercing, we recommend removing the jewelry or replacing it with a flexible bar during pregnancy to accommodate the growth of the abdomen.

The perception of pain varies from person to person and is entirely subjective. Those who had it done say they felt a slight pinch that lasted only a few seconds. However, it is important to consider not only the immediate experience but also the healing process: discomfort may reoccur during the piercing’s healing.

To ensure proper healing of your navel piercing, following a thorough care routine is essential. After the procedure, the piercer will provide specific instructions, which usually include:

1. Regular cleaning: use a saline solution or a gentle antibacterial soap to clean the area at least once a day. Depending on the person’s lifestyle, if they work in a dirty environment or sweat a lot, it is better to clean it slightly more often, but without overdoing it to avoid irritation. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can irritate the skin.
2. Handle with care: only touch the piercing with clean hands, and in any case, touch it as little as possible!
3. Wear cotton fabrics: especially in the first few weeks, choose breathable clothes and avoid anything that may cause friction (and irritation) with the jewelry, such as skirts, belts, etc.
4. Monitor the healing: if taken care properly and with utmost attention, a piercing is unlikely to get infected, but it is very common for it to become irritated, and it is common to mistake irritation for infection. For any doubts, contact the piercer.
5. What to avoid: during the first few weeks, avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and long baths, which can introduce bacteria into the open wound.
6. Healing time: it can vary from person to person—and any complications during the period—but generally, the hole heals completely in 9-12 months. Before replacing the jewelry on your own, in any case, we recommend visiting a professional to assess its condition.