Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2005. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
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New York Times (02.01.05) - Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Lorraine Kreahling
Experts' principal worry is infection with blood-borne pathogens including HIV and hepatitis B and C. Doctors say tongue or genital piercings can open the way for bacteria and viruses to enter the bloodstream after the procedure. Bacteria that live on the skin, including some penicillin-resistant forms of staphylococcus, are easily spread by unsterilized instruments or ungloved hands. The body's reaction to foreign objects, along with bacterial infections, can cause deformities at piercing sites.
A conclusive link between body modification and hepatitis C has not been demonstrated. The CDC-sponsored Texas study found that pierced and/or tattooed students were no more likely than others to have been exposed to hepatitis C virus. However, in an earlier study of 626 patients at an orthopedic clinic, those with tattoos were seven to eight times more likely to have subclinical hepatitis C infections.
Often, middle-age doctors seem unaware that tongue and genital piercings are done to increase stimulation during sex, especially oral sex. Genital piercings may rip condoms; in addition, they may tear or abrade the flesh during intercourse, allowing diseases to spread through blood and other bodily fluids.
In January, Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) joined Long Island health officials in voicing concern over the growing number of hepatitis C cases; they linked the increase in part to piercing and tattooing.
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