For cultures all over the world, body art has and continues to represent a connection between individuals and the spiritual world. Body piercing in particular has a rich history including use as symbols of royalty in Ancient Egypt, and courage in Ancient Rome. In some hunting and gathering societies, body piercing and tattoos have long been used in initiation rites and as socialization symbols.
In today's industrialized societies, body piercing is a popular practice for people of all ages. According to the Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine, piercing is 'indicative of a psychology of self-mutilation, defiance, independence and belonging.'
'Getting a nose piercing gives one a sense of incorporation of culture, a sort of sub-culture,' said Birgit Rasmussen, professor of english at UW-Madison, who pierced her nose while she was in graduate school at UC-Berkeley.
UW-Madison sophomore Kari Rongstad has 16 piercings of her own.
'It became a little addictive. It's just something that sets you apart from other people.'
The Piercing Lounge, 461 W. Gilman St., pierces 30 to 40 customers per day, according to employee Culligan Roberts. Along with Steve's Tattoo, 1205 Williamson St., both businesses try to pierce whatever the customer desires.
'We do pretty much everything'from genital to nose,' Roberts said.
Piercing is an actual puncture of the skin by a 6- to 18- gauge needle. Each business recognizes that everyone's pain tolerance is different.
They said heavy drinking or being under the influence of any kind before getting pierced is strictly prohibited. The Piercing Lounge notes that the consumption of alcohol may lead to more bleeding and 'in the past, people who have consumed muscle relaxers, marijuana, etc., have experienced more pain than they would have without the use of such drugs.'
There are several health-risks involved including chronic infection, scarring, hepatitis B and C, tetanus and skin allergies to the jewelry that is used. The Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine advises that 'procedures should be performed in a sterile environment by an experienced professional.'
For more information on safe piercing, consult a physician or visit www.safepiercing.org.
