Christina Piercing in Nairobi, Kenya

Placement and Procedure

• Location: The piercing is placed vertically at the top of the vulva, just above the clitoral hood, through the pubic mound.
• Jewelry: Typically, a curved barbell or surface bar is used, as these accommodate the natural curve of the mons pubis and reduce the risk of rejection and irritation.

Christina Piercing Procedure

The Christina piercing procedure involves several steps to ensure it is performed safely and correctly. Here’s a detailed overview of what to expect:

• Preparation
  – Consultation: Before the procedure, you’ll have a consultation with one of our piercer. Our piercer will discuss your medical history, check your anatomy to ensure you’re a suitable candidate, and explain the procedure and aftercare requirements.
  – Consent: You’ll be asked to sign a consent form acknowledging the risks and your understanding of the procedure.
• Procedure
  – Sterilization: Our piercer will begin by thoroughly cleaning and sterilizing the genital area to prevent infection.
  – Marking: Our piercer will mark the entry and exit points of the piercing with a surgical marker. This step is crucial for ensuring proper alignment.
  – Positioning: You will be asked to lie down comfortably on a sterilized piercing table.
  (Clamping: Some of our piercers may use a clamp to hold the skin in place and reduce discomfort, although this can vary.)
  – Piercing: Using a sterile, single-use needle, our piercer will create the hole for the jewelry. The needle is inserted through the marked entry and exit points.
  – Jewelry Insertion: After the needle, our piercer will insert the chosen jewelry (typically a curved barbell or surface bar) into the new piercing.
  – Cleaning: The area will be cleaned again to remove any blood and ensure the piercing is free from contaminants.
• Aftercare Instructions
  – Cleaning: Clean the piercing twice daily with a saline solution or a mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid harsh chemicals and excessive touching.
  – Avoiding Irritation: Wear loose-fitting clothing to minimize friction and avoid activities that may irritate the piercing, such as sexual activity and rigorous exercise, during the initial healing period.
  – Monitoring: Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, pain, or discharge. If any of these symptoms occur, contact your piercer or a healthcare professional.
• Healing Process
  – Initial Healing: The first few weeks are crucial. The piercing may be tender and swollen initially.
  – Long-Term Healing: Full healing can take 6 months to a year. Be patient and follow aftercare instructions diligently to avoid complications.
• Risks and Considerations
  – Infection: Always follow aftercare instructions to minimize the risk of infection.
  – Rejection and Migration: Due to the surface nature of the Christina piercing, there is a higher risk of rejection and migration.
  – Scarring: There is a possibility of scarring if the piercing does not heal properly or is rejected.
• Choosing a Professional Piercer
  – Ensure your piercer is experienced, especially with genital piercings.
  – Check the cleanliness and hygiene standards of the piercing studio.
  – Ask to see a portfolio of their previous work and read reviews or testimonials from other clients.

By understanding the procedure and committing to proper aftercare, you can increase the chances of a successful and healthy Christina piercing.

Considerations before getting a Christina Piercing

Getting a Christina piercing involves various considerations to ensure it’s the right choice for you and that the process goes smoothly. Here are some key points to think about before deciding to get a Christina piercing:

• Anatomy Suitability
  – Individual Anatomy: Not everyone is anatomically suited for a Christina piercing. The success of this piercing depends on having enough tissue at the mons pubis for the piercing to anchor properly. At Rebel Inks Tattoos, Tattoo Removal, and Body Piercings Parlour we have experienced piercers to assess if your anatomy is suitable.
• Pain Tolerance
  – Pain Level: Christina piercings can be moderately painful due to the thickness of the tissue. Consider your pain tolerance and whether you’re comfortable with the discomfort involved during and after the procedure.
• Healing Time and Aftercare
  – Healing Duration: Christina piercings have a long healing time, typically between 6 months to a year. Be prepared for a lengthy healing process that requires diligent aftercare.
  – Aftercare Commitment: Proper aftercare is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. This includes cleaning the piercing twice daily with a saline solution and avoiding activities that may irritate the piercing.
• Lifestyle Impact
  – Activity Restrictions: During the healing period, you’ll need to avoid certain activities that could disrupt the piercing, such as rigorous exercise, sexual activity, and wearing tight clothing.
  – Daily Routine: Consider how the piercing might affect your daily life and activities. Ensure you can accommodate the care and attention needed during the healing process.
• Risk of Complications
  – Infection: As with any piercing, there’s a risk of infection if proper aftercare isn’t followed. Be vigilant about cleaning and monitoring the piercing site.
  – Rejection and Migration: Surface piercings like the Christina piercing are more prone to rejection and migration. Be aware that your body may push the jewelry out over time.
  – Scarring: There is a possibility of scarring if the piercing is rejected or removed. Consider if you’re comfortable with potential scars in this area.
• Jewelry Considerations
  – Jewelry Choice: The initial jewelry will typically be a curved barbell or surface bar to accommodate the area’s shape. Ensure you’re comfortable with the type of jewelry used and understand how to care for it.
  – Jewelry Quality: Choose high-quality jewelry made from materials such as surgical steel, titanium, or niobium to minimize the risk of allergic reactions and promote better healing.
• Choosing the Right Piercer
  – Experience and Expertise: At Rebel Inks Tattoos, Tattoo Removal, and Body Piercings Parlour we have a team of professional piercers with extensive experience in genital piercings.
  – Hygiene Standards: Ensure the piercing studio adheres to strict hygiene and sterilization protocols to reduce the risk of infection.
• Personal Comfort and Confidence
  – Personal Decision: Make sure this decision is personally meaningful and not influenced by external pressures.
  – Comfort Level: Ensure you feel comfortable with the piercer and the environment of the piercing studio. Confidence in your piercer can significantly impact your overall experience.

By thoroughly considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about getting a Christina piercing and ensure you’re prepared for the process and aftercare involved.

Pain and Healing of a Christina Piercing

Pain Level

• During the Procedure:
  – Moderate Pain: Most people report that the pain during the piercing procedure is moderate. The area has a substantial amount of tissue, which can make the piercing feel more intense compared to other, thinner areas.
  – Quick Process: The piercing itself is quick, lasting only a few seconds, but you might feel a sharp pinch and pressure.
• After the Procedure:
  – Initial Soreness: After the piercing, it’s common to experience soreness, swelling, and tenderness in the area. This can last for several days to a week.
  – Discomfort: Some discomfort is to be expected during the initial healing period, especially when moving or if the area experiences friction from clothing.

Healing Process

• Initial Healing (First Few Weeks):
  – Swelling and Redness: The piercing site will be swollen and red initially. This is a normal part of the healing process.
  – Daily Cleaning: Clean the piercing twice daily with a saline solution or a mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can be too harsh and delay healing.
• Ongoing Healing (Months 1-6):
  – Reduced Swelling: Swelling and redness should gradually decrease after the first few weeks.
  – Formation of Fistula: The body will start forming a fistula (a tunnel of healed tissue) around the jewelry. This process can take several months.
  – Avoid Irritation: Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid activities that put pressure or friction on the piercing.
• Full Healing (6 Months to 1 Year):
  – Complete Healing: Full healing can take up to a year. During this time, it’s crucial to continue with proper aftercare and avoid changing the jewelry prematurely.
  – Check-ups: Periodic visits to your piercer can help monitor the healing process and address any concerns.

Christina Piercing Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the successful healing of a Christina piercing and to minimize the risk of complications such as infection, rejection, or scarring. Here are detailed aftercare instructions for a Christina piercing:

Cleaning Routine

• Saline Solution Soaks:
  – Frequency: Clean the piercing twice daily.
  – Preparation: Use a pre-made saline solution or make your own by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in 200 millilitres of warm distilled water.
  – Application: Soak a clean cotton pad or gauze in the saline solution and gently apply it to the piercing site for a few minutes. You can also use a saline spray for convenience.
• Mild Soap:
  – Type: Use a mild, fragrance-free soap.
  – Frequency: Once a day, during your shower.
  – Method: Gently lather around the piercing with clean hands, then thoroughly rinse with warm water to ensure no soap residue remains.

Hygiene Practices

• Hand Washing:
  – Before Touching: Always wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before touching your piercing or performing any cleaning.
• Avoiding Contaminants:
  – No Twisting or Turning: Do not twist or turn the jewelry, as this can introduce bacteria and disrupt the healing process.
  – Avoiding Makeup and Lotions: Keep makeup, lotions, and other body care products away from the piercing site.

Clothing and Activity Considerations

• Clothing:
  Loose-Fitting Clothing: Wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize friction and irritation. Avoid tight pants, underwear, and fabrics that can rub against the piercing.
• Sexual Activity:
  – Abstinence: Avoid sexual activity that involves the piercing site for at least the first few weeks to prevent irritation and the introduction of bacteria.
  – Protection: Once sexual activity resumes, use barrier methods such as condoms to reduce the risk of infection.

General Tips

• Avoid Submersion:
  – Water Bodies: Refrain from submerging the piercing in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or any body of water that might contain bacteria until it is fully healed.
• Healthy Lifestyle:
  – Diet and Hydration: Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to support the healing process.
  – Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Minimize smoking and alcohol consumption, as they can impair healing.

Monitoring for Complications

• Infection Signs:
  – Symptoms: Look for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or discharge that is yellow or green in color.
  – Action: If you notice any of these symptoms, seek advice from your piercer or a healthcare professional promptly.
• Rejection and Migration:
  – Observation: Monitor the piercing for signs of rejection, such as the jewelry moving closer to the surface, increased visibility of the jewelry, or thinning of the tissue.
  – Consultation: Contact our piercer if you suspect rejection or migration for an evaluation and possible adjustment.
• Scarring:
  – Minimizing Scars: Proper aftercare and avoiding premature removal of the jewelry can help minimize scarring. If you remove the jewelry, continue cleaning the area until it heals completely.

Follow-Up Care

• Check-Ups:
  – Piercer Visits: Schedule periodic visits with our piercer for check-ups, especially if you experience any issues or have concerns about the healing process.
  – Jewelry Changes: Do not change the jewelry until the piercing is fully healed, typically after 6 months to a year. At Rebel Inks Tattoos, Tattoo Removal, and Body Piercings Parlour we have professional piercers to assist with the first jewelry change.

By adhering to these aftercare instructions, you can support the healing process of your Christina piercing and reduce the risk of complications. Always consult with our professional piercer if you have any questions or concerns during the healing period.

Christina Piercing Jewelry

Choosing the right jewelry for a Christina piercing is crucial for comfort, healing, and overall aesthetics. Here are the key points to consider when selecting and caring for Christina piercing jewelry:

Types of Jewelry

• Curved Barbell
  Description: A barbell with a slight curve that fits the natural contour of the piercing site.
  Benefits: Reduces pressure and irritation on the piercing compared to straight barbells.
• Surface Bar
  Description: A specially designed bar with 90-degree angles on both ends.
  Benefits: Sits more comfortably and flush against the skin, minimizing the risk of rejection.

Materials

• Titanium
  – Properties: Hypoallergenic, lightweight, and durable.
  – Benefits: Ideal for those with sensitive skin or metal allergies. Promotes faster healing due to its biocompatibility.
• Surgical Stainless Steel
  – Properties: Commonly used, durable, and affordable.
  – Benefits: Suitable for most people, though not as hypoallergenic as titanium.
• Niobium
  – Properties: Hypoallergenic and flexible.
  – Benefits: Another good option for sensitive skin, though less commonly used than titanium.
• Gold (14k or higher)
  – Properties: Luxurious and non-reactive.
  – Benefits: Provides a premium option, but ensure it’s solid gold and not gold-plated to avoid irritation.

Sizing

• Gauge: Typically, a 14-gauge (1.6 mm) or 16-gauge (1.2 mm) is used. The gauge refers to the thickness of the jewelry.
• Length: The length of the jewelry will depend on individual anatomy. It’s crucial that the jewelry fits well to avoid excessive movement or pressure.

Initial Jewelry

• Fit: The initial jewelry should be slightly longer to accommodate swelling during the healing process.
• Professional Insertion: At Rebel Inks Tattoos, Tattoo Removal, and Body Piercings Parlour we have a professional piercers who wil help choose and insert the initial jewelry to ensure proper fit and minimize complications.

Jewelry Care and Maintenance

• Cleaning: Clean the jewelry and the piercing site as part of your daily aftercare routine. Use a saline solution or mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Avoiding Irritation: Do not rotate or move the jewelry unnecessarily during the healing process. Minimize Friction: Wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction and pressure on the piercing.
• Jewelry Changes: Wait until the piercing is fully healed (6 months to a year) before changing the jewelry. Have a professional piercer change the jewelry for the first time to ensure proper handling and insertion.

Risks and Considerations

• Rejection and Migration:
  – Signs: Watch for signs of rejection, such as the jewelry moving closer to the skin’s surface or the skin becoming thinner.
  – Prevention: Choosing the right type and material of jewelry can help reduce the risk of rejection.
• Infection:
  – Prevention: Proper aftercare and high-quality jewelry materials are essential to prevent infections.
  – Action: If signs of infection occur (redness, swelling, discharge), seek medical advice promptly.

Aesthetic Choices

• Design: Once fully healed, you can choose from a variety of decorative ends and designs to personalize your piercing.
• Matching: Consider jewelry that complements your other piercings or overall style.

By carefully selecting the right type, material, and size of jewelry, and following proper aftercare and maintenance, you can enhance the comfort and longevity of your Christina piercing. Always consult with our professional piercer for personalized recommendations and care instructions.

Cost of a Christina Piercing in Nairobi, Kenya

The cost of a Christina piercing can vary significantly based on several factors, including the location of the piercing studio, the experience and reputation of the piercer, and the type of jewelry used. Here are some details to consider:

Average Cost Breakdown

• Piercing Fee:
  – Range: The fee for the piercing procedure itself typically ranges from ksh.5,000 to ksh.20,000.
  – Influence: Prices may be higher in larger cities or more reputable studios due to higher overhead costs and demand for experienced piercers. Rebel Inks Tattoos, Tattoo Removal, and Body Piercings Parlour is located in the heart of the Central Business Disrict (CBD) in Nairobi, Kenya, and is easily accessible to both locals and foreigners in the country
• Jewelry Cost:
  – Initial Jewelry: High-quality jewelry is crucial for a Christina piercing. Expect to pay between Ksh. 1,500 and Ksh. 5,000 for the initial jewelry, depending on the material and design.
  →Titanium or Surgical Stainless Steel: Generally costs between Ksh. 1,500 and Ksh. 20,000.
  →Gold (14k or higher): Can range from Ksh. 10,000 to Ksh. 100,000 or more depending on grams.
  – Upgraded Jewelry: Custom or decorative pieces for fully healed piercings can cost significantly more.

Additional Costs

• Consultation Fee: Some studios may charge a separate consultation fee, especially if a thorough anatomical assessment is needed. This fee is usually included in the piercing fee.
• Aftercare Products: You may need to purchase aftercare products like saline solution or mild soap, which can add to your initial cost.
• Follow-Up Visits: Follow-up appointments are generally included in the initial fee, but if you need additional visits, there might be extra charges.

Factors Influencing Cost

• Location:
  – Urban vs. Rural: Piercing studios in urban areas tend to charge more due to higher rent and operating costs.
  – Regional Differences: Prices can vary significantly from one region to another.
• Piercer’s Experience and Reputation:
  – Expertise: Highly experienced piercers with a good reputation may charge more, but their expertise can ensure a safer procedure and better outcomes.
  – Studio Reputation: Well-known studios with high hygiene standards and good customer reviews may also charge higher fees.
• Jewelry Quality:
  – Material: The type of material (e.g., titanium, surgical steel, gold) affects the price. Hypoallergenic materials like titanium are often more expensive but recommended for initial piercings.
  – Design: Basic jewelry is less expensive, while custom or decorative pieces can significantly increase the cost.

Total Estimated Cost

Taking all factors into account, you can expect the total cost for a Christina piercing to range from Ksh. 5,000 to Ksh. 20,000 or more, including the procedure and initial jewelry.

Tips for Cost Management

• Research Studios: Look for reputable studios with experienced piercers. Sometimes, paying a bit more for quality and expertise is worth it.
• Ask for Breakdown: At Rebel Inks Tattoos, Tattoo Removal, and Body Piercings Parlour we give a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
• Avoid Bargain Hunting: Don’t choose a studio solely based on the lowest price. Quality, hygiene, and expertise are crucial for a safe piercing and smooth healing process.
• Check Reviews: Read customer reviews and ask for recommendations to find a studio with a good reputation for Christina piercings.

By considering these factors and planning accordingly, you can budget effectively for your Christina piercing and ensure a safe and satisfactory experience.