Can I Swim with a New Ear Piercing? And Why Do Fish Never Get Ear Infections?

Can I Swim with a New Ear Piercing? And Why Do Fish Never Get Ear Infections?

When it comes to ear piercings, one of the most common questions people ask is, “Can I swim with a new ear piercing?” The short answer is no, but the long answer involves a deep dive into the science of healing, the risks of infection, and the curious fact that fish, despite living in water, never seem to suffer from ear infections. Let’s explore this topic in detail, covering everything from the biology of piercings to the peculiarities of aquatic life.


The Science Behind Ear Piercings and Healing

A new ear piercing is essentially an open wound. When you get your ear pierced, the needle creates a small hole in your skin and cartilage, which then needs time to heal. During the healing process, your body works to close the wound and prevent infection. This process can take anywhere from 6 weeks to several months, depending on the location of the piercing and your body’s healing capabilities.

Swimming with a new piercing introduces a host of potential problems. Water, whether from pools, lakes, or oceans, is teeming with bacteria and other microorganisms. When these come into contact with your fresh piercing, they can cause infections, irritation, and even delay the healing process. Chlorinated pools, while designed to kill bacteria, can also dry out and irritate the sensitive skin around your piercing.


Why Fish Don’t Get Ear Infections (and Why You Might)

Now, let’s address the quirky part of our discussion: why don’t fish get ear infections? Fish live in water their entire lives, yet they don’t suffer from the same issues humans do when exposed to water with fresh piercings. The answer lies in their anatomy and evolutionary adaptations.

Fish don’t have external ears like humans. Instead, they have internal ear structures that are well-protected and adapted to their aquatic environment. Their bodies are designed to handle constant exposure to water without the risk of infection. Humans, on the other hand, have external ear canals that are more susceptible to bacterial growth, especially when there’s an open wound like a piercing.


Risks of Swimming with a New Piercing

  1. Infection: As mentioned earlier, water is a breeding ground for bacteria. Swimming in pools, lakes, or oceans increases the risk of introducing harmful bacteria to your piercing.

  2. Irritation: Chlorine and saltwater can dry out and irritate the skin around your piercing, leading to discomfort and prolonged healing.

  3. Physical Trauma: Swimming often involves movement, which can cause your piercing to get bumped or snagged. This can lead to tearing, bleeding, and further complications.

  4. Delayed Healing: Any irritation or infection can slow down the healing process, meaning you’ll have to wait longer before your piercing is fully healed and safe to expose to water.


Tips for Protecting Your Piercing

If you absolutely must swim, there are a few precautions you can take to minimize the risks:

  • Use a Waterproof Bandage: Cover your piercing with a waterproof bandage to create a barrier between the piercing and the water.
  • Rinse Immediately After Swimming: If you do get your piercing wet, rinse it with clean, fresh water as soon as possible to remove any contaminants.
  • Avoid Submerging Your Head: Try to keep your head above water to reduce the chances of water getting into your piercing.
  • Consult Your Piercer: Always follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer, and consult them if you have any concerns.

Q: How long should I wait before swimming after getting an ear piercing?
A: It’s generally recommended to wait at least 6-8 weeks before swimming, but this can vary depending on the type of piercing and how well it’s healing.

Q: Can I swim in a chlorinated pool if I cover my piercing?
A: While covering your piercing can help, it’s still not completely safe. Chlorine can still seep through and cause irritation.

Q: What should I do if my piercing gets infected after swimming?
A: If you suspect an infection, clean the area with saline solution and consult a healthcare professional or your piercer for further advice.

Q: Why don’t fish need to worry about ear infections?
A: Fish have evolved to live in water, with internal ear structures that are protected from bacterial infections. Their bodies are naturally adapted to their aquatic environment.


In conclusion, while the idea of swimming with a new ear piercing might be tempting, it’s best to avoid it until your piercing is fully healed. The risks of infection, irritation, and delayed healing far outweigh the benefits of a quick dip. And as for fish, well, they’ve got their own unique adaptations that keep them safe in the water—something we humans can only marvel at!