I got both nipples pierced about three years ago, I've had hoops the entire time. I went to a trusted piercer with a great reputation. I was diligent with washing with antibacterial soap and doing sea salt soaks daily. They healed perfectly, and I've never had any problems with them until the past month or so. Now they are red, itchy, swollen all the time, and as sore as when they were first pierced. There is no drainage or other sign of infection. Has anyone else experienced any of this with nipple piercings? I know it could be a skin issue and not necessarily related to the piercing, but since that's the only area affected I assume they're related.  Thanks for reading, any input is helpful.

My recommendation is to get barbells, not hoops. At least until they are completely healed. The reason for the irritation after 3 years could possibly just be caused by your hoops. From my experience the hoops tend to be more problematic then straight barbells The hoop will break tissue because of the curve and it moving around. So your piercing may have very well appeared healed but if the ring flips up it can damage the tissue. Most piercers will recommend barbells. Im sure there are plenty of people who've had no problems with hoops but I had hoops the first time I got mine pierced and had the same problem as you. After my pregnancy I removed them to breastfeed and they closed up in it seemed just hours. Now 5 years later I just got both re pierced with barbells and I have hd no problems. Hope I helped you love!

Very helpful, thank you! Interesting too...the piercer told me hoops were best because they allow tissue more room to expand (in case of swelling) but I'd never considered that the shape itself could be irritating.