The urge to decorate the body and control ones' appearance is a universal human trait.  Each of us uses clothing, hairstyle, and so on to express our individuality and to make the most of the gifts or curses - perceived or real  bestowed by nature.  Nowadays we have more choices than ever to manipulate our looks.  The options range from minor adjustments such as hair dye and teeth whitener to more extreme but still socially acceptable practices such as liposuction and breast implants.  Although body modifications are still less conventional than, say, getting a nose job, it has become prevalent in today's world.

Piercing and other types of body modification are methods of changing the actual physical form, which is empowering in a way that may not be fully understood by those who have never participated in it.  Women, in particular, are bombarded by the media's unrealistic notions of beauty, which deeply affect self-esteem and body image.  They may turn to piercing or other forms of body art to help them embrace a positive attitude about themselves.  While there is no unanimous consensus about whether body jewelry enhances appearance, aesthetics is a wide spread motivating factor for piercing.

Many adults are motivated to be pierced for sexual gratification. The presence of piercings and jewelry in certain locations results in increased physical stimulation for piercees or their partners.  Couples sometimes use piercings to revitalize their sensual focus and reignite the flames in relationships that have lost some of their spark.  Intimate piercings can bolster confidence in the bedroom and in oneself as a sexual being.

Many people do not find their private parts attractive or appealing.  A large proportion of men from Western nations have had their genitals altered through nonconsensual circumcision during infancy.  When an individual makes a choice about the appearance of his or her own genitals by piercing and adorning them with jewelry it can be highly liberating, and for many it inspires a harmony with their bodies that could not be achieved by any other means.

Piercings - Healing and Care

In order for the person to be able to wear beautiful erotic jewelry in their piercing locations, strict attention to aftercare of the wound is of great importance. Without proper and serious aftercare, there is a risk of annoying and painful infections.

Healing

The complete healing process can take anywhere from 2-9 months. In the beginning days after the piercing, the wound can appear red, itchy, and ooze a yellowish fluid for up to two weeks. If the wound produces pus, then immediate attention by the piercer or your physician should be sought.

Cleaning

Before cleaning the wound with a liquid antiseptic, carefully wash your hands with an antibacterial soap. Soak the area for approximately 3-5 minutes with saltwater (1/4 tea spoon salt with 5cl water). Then clean the wound with the antiseptic and move the jewelry carefully in the piercing channel. This should not be done more than twice a day, because otherwise, the skin cannot heal.

Infections

If the wound gets very red, swollen, painful, or warm, you might have an infection and a physician should be consulted after a visit to the piercer to have him take a look. In no case, remove the jewelry which can further aggravate the problem. Please do not fail to see a physician because you are embarrassed. They will have seen these type of infections and can aide in caring for it. Your health is more important than embarrassment of seeking professional medical attention.