ok, so i got a vertical hood piercing from an absolutely wonderful piercer about 2 and a half days ago. as of yesterday night, i'd been experiencing a lot of extra swelling to the point where i couldn't really see the bottom ball of my 14G barbell (she put in a longer than normal one and i'm supposed to go back in a month to get a shorter one). i used cold water to take down the swelling, so now i can see the bottom ball, but there's a lump on the side of the piercing
its not hard or anything and looks kinda like a raised bruise swollen. it started right next to the piercing (looked like rubbing irritated over something new being there) and extended downward about 1 2 inch over 24 hours. the bruise looking part is going away near the top by the piercing, but at the bottom of it its still dark. it doesn't hurt or itch or anything. its just kinda there but i'm really hoping it will go away-- should i be worried and seek attention?
side note: i live in a dorm and cleaning in the shower is difficult so i use a shot glass to help get the water where it needs to rinse the piercing. after reading your site, i'm stopping salt water rinses.
We pierce all genital piercings with 12g because it is thicker and more stable as the area is very labial and migration can occur with 14g.
We do not use salt water at all, so its a good thing that you have stopped using it. Taking a shower is alright just cup your hand so water can get into the area.
If you want to help reduce the swelling, take an anti-inflamatory (Tylenol or extra strength Midol). It does sound like you have irritated the piercing. Peak swelling is on day 3 and then should start to dissipate.
If you are still concerned after a week, we recommend returning to the piercer and letting them take a look.
