Why Do Females Get Tongue Piercings: A Comprehensive Guide & Detailed Steps

Tongue piercings, a form of body modification where a hole is created through the tongue to insert jewelry, have become increasingly popular, particularly among females. While the reasons behind this choice are diverse and personal, exploring the motivations, the procedure itself, aftercare, and potential risks provides a comprehensive understanding. This article delves into why females often opt for tongue piercings, offering a detailed guide to the process and ensuring informed decision-making.

The Allure of Tongue Piercings: Why Females Choose Them

The reasons why females get tongue piercings are multifaceted, ranging from personal expression to cultural influences. Here are some of the most common motivations:

1. Self-Expression and Individuality: In a world often perceived as conforming, body modifications like tongue piercings offer a way to showcase individuality. It’s a personal statement, a declaration of one’s unique style and preferences. For many females, it’s about reclaiming their bodies and expressing themselves on their own terms. It can feel empowering to make a choice that reflects who they are inside, rather than conforming to societal expectations.
2. Aesthetics and Fashion: The appeal of a tongue piercing can be purely aesthetic. Different types of jewelry can be used, from simple studs to colorful barbells, allowing individuals to match their piercing to their overall look or mood. It can be seen as a fashionable accessory, akin to earrings or necklaces, adding a touch of edginess or subtle sparkle. The trend of tongue piercings, particularly among certain subcultures, also plays a role.
3. Personal Empowerment and Body Autonomy: Choosing to get a tongue piercing can be a form of asserting control over one’s own body. It’s a conscious decision to make a change, and it can be a liberating experience. It’s a way of saying, “This is my body, and I decide what I do with it.” This sense of empowerment can be particularly strong for females who might feel pressured to conform to specific beauty standards.
4. Sensual Exploration and Pleasure: While not always the primary reason, some individuals are drawn to tongue piercings for the potential increase in sensation, both for themselves and during intimate activities. The added texture can create new sensations, contributing to a more fulfilling sensual experience. However, it’s crucial to understand that this is a highly individual experience and not guaranteed for everyone.
5. Peer Influence and Social Acceptance: In some social circles, tongue piercings are common and accepted, leading individuals to consider them as a way to fit in or express solidarity with their peers. This can be particularly influential during adolescence and early adulthood, where peer relationships play a significant role in self-identity formation. It’s important to differentiate this from true personal desire, though.
6. Overcoming Fears and Stepping Outside Comfort Zone: For some, getting a piercing is a way to challenge themselves and overcome a fear. It can be a small but significant act of bravery, boosting confidence and providing a sense of accomplishment. This is especially true if there is anxiety surrounding needles or the concept of permanent body modification.
7. Art and Body as Canvas: Similar to tattoos, many view piercings as an art form. The human body becomes a canvas where individuals express themselves through the placement and style of jewelry. The tongue, though concealed for the most part, becomes a private statement of art and individuality.
8. Curiosity and Experimentation: Simply, some are curious about the experience of getting a piercing and want to explore a new way of altering their appearance. The appeal of novelty and the desire to try new things can be strong motivators.

Detailed Steps: Getting Your Tongue Pierced

If you are considering a tongue piercing, it is crucial to choose a reputable and experienced piercer who follows strict hygiene practices. The procedure itself is relatively quick, but it requires careful preparation and aftercare. Here are the steps involved in getting a tongue piercing:

1. Research and Choosing a Piercer:
   • Reputation and Experience: Look for a piercer with a good reputation and considerable experience in performing tongue piercings. Check online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends, or consult body modification forums. Ideally, they should be certified by a professional piercing organization.
   • Hygiene Practices: The studio should be clean, and the piercer should use sterile, disposable equipment. Observe the environment and ensure all tools are properly sterilized. Do not hesitate to ask about their sterilization procedures.
   • Consultation: Before the procedure, the piercer should conduct a consultation to discuss your medical history, answer your questions, and assess the suitability of your tongue for piercing. This is your opportunity to address concerns and gather all necessary information.
2. Preparation:
   • Oral Hygiene: A few days before your appointment, focus on maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day, use mouthwash regularly (preferably alcohol-free to minimize dryness), and floss daily. This helps reduce bacteria in your mouth, minimizing the risk of infection.
   • Avoid Blood Thinners: Avoid taking aspirin or other blood-thinning medications in the 24 hours leading up to the appointment. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided as these can impact bleeding. Consult your doctor about any medications you are currently taking.
   • Eat Beforehand: Ensure you eat a full meal before your appointment. You may not feel like eating after the piercing, and a full stomach helps your body cope with the procedure.
   • Bring Identification: Most reputable piercers will require proof of age, so bring a valid photo ID.
3. The Piercing Procedure:
   • Mouthwash Rinse: The piercer will usually have you rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to further reduce bacteria.
   • Marking the Spot: The piercer will examine your tongue to determine the best placement for the piercing, avoiding veins and major muscle groups. They will then mark the piercing site with a surgical marker.
   • Clamping: Your tongue will be held steady using a sterile clamp. This is a vital step in ensuring the piercing is straight and properly placed.
   • Needle Insertion: A sterile, single-use needle is used to create the hole through your tongue. The piercing is usually done swiftly and can cause a brief sharp pain.
   • Jewelry Insertion: Once the needle has passed through, the piercer will immediately insert the initial jewelry (usually a longer barbell) through the newly created hole. The extra length is necessary to accommodate swelling.
4. Initial Jewelry and Aftercare Instructions:
   • Type of Jewelry: The initial jewelry is typically a longer barbell made of hypoallergenic materials like surgical steel or titanium. This allows room for swelling and promotes healing.
   • Aftercare Discussion: The piercer will provide detailed aftercare instructions, which you must adhere to meticulously to ensure proper healing. This is the most crucial part of the procedure.

Detailed Aftercare Instructions

Proper aftercare is essential to prevent infection and ensure your tongue piercing heals correctly. Here’s a comprehensive guide to aftercare:

1. Rinse Your Mouth Frequently:
   • Saline Rinse: After every meal, snack, and drink (except water), rinse your mouth with a sterile saline solution. You can purchase this at a pharmacy or make your own by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in one cup of warm distilled water. Rinse for 30-60 seconds, making sure the solution reaches all areas of your mouth.
   • Antiseptic Mouthwash: Use an alcohol-free antiseptic mouthwash twice a day (morning and night) in addition to the saline rinse. Avoid using mouthwashes that contain alcohol, as they can irritate the piercing and slow down the healing process.
2. Dietary Precautions:
   • Soft Foods: For the first few days, stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Avoid hot or spicy foods, and foods with a lot of sugar, which can irritate the piercing. Soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are good options.
   • Avoid Chewing Gum: Avoid chewing gum as it can place unnecessary stress on the piercing during healing.
   • No Alcohol or Smoking: Refrain from alcohol and smoking for at least 2-3 weeks after the piercing, as these can both hinder the healing process. Alcohol can dry the tissues and increase bleeding, while smoking can introduce bacteria and toxins into the mouth.
3. Reduce Swelling:
   • Ice: Suck on ice chips or ice cubes to help reduce swelling during the first few days. You can also use an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth for a few minutes at a time.
   • Elevate your Head: Try to keep your head slightly elevated while you are resting, as this can reduce some of the swelling.
4. Avoid Touching the Piercing:
   • Hands Off: Resist the temptation to touch or play with your piercing. This can introduce bacteria and lead to infections.
   • Do Not Twist or Rotate the Jewelry: Avoid rotating or twisting the jewelry, as it can tear the healing tissue. Let the piercing heal undisturbed.
5. Be Aware of Signs of Infection:
   • Redness, Swelling, Pain: Some redness, swelling, and mild discomfort are normal immediately after the piercing, but if they become excessive, see a professional.
   • Pus or Unusual Discharge: If you notice pus or a thick, yellow/green discharge coming from the piercing, it is a sign of infection.
   • Fever or Chills: If you develop a fever or chills, you may have a more systemic infection. See a doctor immediately.
6. Jewelry Adjustments and Changes:
   • Downsizing: After the initial swelling has subsided (usually within a few weeks), it’s crucial to go back to your piercer to have the jewelry downsized to a shorter barbell. This helps prevent the jewelry from catching on your teeth and gums and encourages more comfortable healing.
   • Changing Jewelry: Once the piercing is fully healed (usually 6-8 weeks), you can change your jewelry if you wish. Always use jewelry that is made of high-quality materials (such as surgical steel or titanium) and make sure that it is properly cleaned before insertion. Consult with your piercer for guidance on changing your jewelry for the first time.
7. Regular Check-ups:
   • See Your Piercer: Schedule follow-up appointments with your piercer for check-ups and professional guidance. They can identify any issues and provide personalized advice.

Potential Risks and Complications

While tongue piercings are a popular form of body modification, it’s crucial to be aware of potential risks and complications:

1. Infection: Infection is one of the most common risks with any piercing. Proper aftercare is vital to minimizing this risk, but it can still occur. Bacterial infections can lead to pain, swelling, redness, pus, and, in severe cases, more serious health issues.
2. Swelling: Significant swelling is normal in the first few days after a tongue piercing, but excessive swelling can interfere with breathing or swallowing.
3. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to the metal used in the jewelry. Choose hypoallergenic materials, such as surgical steel or titanium, to minimize this risk.
4. Nerve Damage: There is a small risk of nerve damage, which can lead to numbness or altered taste. It’s crucial to choose an experienced piercer who is knowledgeable about the anatomy of the tongue.
5. Tooth Damage and Gum Recession: The constant contact of metal against teeth can cause chipped or cracked teeth, and the jewelry can also rub against the gums, causing recession. Downsizing the jewelry once swelling subsides can help prevent this damage.
6. Scarring: Tongue piercings can leave a scar, although this is usually minimal. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions diligently to avoid excessive scarring.
7. Speech Impediments: A new piercing can temporarily affect speech, causing a slight lisp. This is usually temporary and resolves as the piercing heals.
8. Rejection: In rare cases, the body may reject the piercing, causing it to migrate or grow out. If this happens, the piercing may need to be removed.
9. Blood-Borne Illnesses: If unsterilized equipment is used, there is a risk of contracting blood-borne illnesses such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. It’s absolutely essential to choose a studio that adheres to strict hygiene and sterilization practices.

Conclusion

Choosing to get a tongue piercing is a personal decision driven by a variety of reasons. Whether it’s an act of self-expression, a fashion statement, or simply a personal curiosity, it is important to be fully informed about the process, aftercare, and potential risks. By choosing a reputable piercer, following aftercare instructions diligently, and being aware of potential complications, you can significantly increase your chances of a successful and satisfying piercing experience. Remember that a well-healed tongue piercing can be a lasting form of self-expression, but it requires dedication and a serious approach to personal care.