The worst problem with a new piercing is yourself. To minimise the risk of infection follow these steps...

1. Clean piercing twice a day with warm water then rinse with clean water
   
   
2. Do not turn the jewellery as you might get some lymph (or pus) into the piercing causing an infection
   
   
3. Before cleaning your piercing make sure your hands are clean, especially your fingernails
   
   
4. Do wear clean clothes, the looser the better. Do not hang anything of rings or bars as it may delay healing time
   
   
5. If you do get an infection, for two days try watering down some hydrogen peroxide. Dab on the piercing with a cotton bud then rinse off with clean water, then go back to just using warm water.
   
   
6. If the piercing is still weeping and infection persists consult your doctor. You might need a course of antibiotics
   
   
7. Do not play with jewellery as you may start an infection, especially if you have dirty fingernails
   
   
8. Women may take a longer time to heal, due to menstruation