i got my nipples pierced about 3yrs ago, last week i went and got them stretched by 2 sizes. (from 14 to 10gauge), and went from a straight bar to a horse-shoe.
Is it common for the nipples to still be VERY tender and for the bars to be held so tight that if the bar is moved the whole nipple moves....without water the bars do not move within the flesh at all.
It is very common for piercings to be very tender when upgauging, even more so when going from a 14 to a 10 gauge. Its very tramatic and the body does resist and why when you try to move the jewellery it affects the entire area.
Our recommendation is to STOP trying to move the jewellery, allow your body to become adjusted to the increase thickness. The more you do, the more difficult it will be for you.
Do NOT even move them when showering. In the shower, just let the water run over the piercings. If you notice any crusties, then take a Q-tip and remove them without moving the jewellery too much. Then take another one and apply a moisturizer to the tissues and rub in until absorbed (do not put into the piercings as it will sting).
In a few days, by following our recommendations, the problem should resolve itself and you will notice them adjusting to the increase in size.
