You want to make a fashion statement. You crave attention. You want to be cool. You want to rattle your parents. Or you just like the way it looks. All of these reasons and more are why many people get body piercings.

Regardless of the reason to pierce, there are definitely certain things to consider before deciding to get pierced. The first thing to think about before getting any type of body piercing is whether you have any type of medical condition that could be complicated or worsened as a result of piercing. Some people are subject to various types of infections or skin conditions that could become severe as a result of piercing.

Another possible cause for concern is the employment arena. Of course, this all depends on exactly where you want to get pierced. Be aware that if you want to work in that swanky department store this fall, the barbell in your eyebrow might cost you the job.

One other area that you might want to take into consideration is the reaction of your parents. True, many teens get pierced just to get a rise out of their parents; however, if having a body part pierced is something that is going to seriously strain your relationship with them, you might want to think twice. Body piercing will still be around when you move out. This is probably a moot point anyway because piercing establishments in most states require that a parent be present when a minor is being pierced, or the teen must have an official court-signed affidavit. So odds are, your parents will have a say in this issue anyway.

If, after evaluating these concerns, you decide that body piercing is something you want to do, there are a few precautions you should take. According to the Association of Professional Piercers, here are a few guidelines to aid you in your quest to have a safe piercing experience:

  • Ask to see the shop's autoclave (sterilizer) and spore tests. The test ensures the sterilizer is working properly. If they don't run regular spore tests, don't let them pierce you.

  • Make sure the shop doesn't reuse needles. All needles should be in individual packages and should be opened while you are present.

  • Make sure the shop is clean, including the restrooms. Every shop should have at least five separate areas: the counter, waiting room, piercing room(s), bathroom, and separate sterilization room. Take a tour and use your instincts to determine your comfort level.

  • Seek recommendations. Talk to a friend whose piercing you like about the shop where he or she got pierced.

  • Ask questions of the staff and the piercer. Do they seem knowledgeable? How long have they been piercing? Take a look at their portfolio.

  • Make sure the shop provides aftercare guidelines. Be sure to read this before you get the piercing done; this way there are no surprises. If they don't provide guidelines, it's best to move on.

  • Make sure the shop has a license to operate. And inquire if they are a member of the Association of Professional Piercers. You can also check to see if there have been any complaints with the Better Business Bureau.

  • Last but not least, check the shop's age requirements. They can differ from state to state. In some states, minors can't be pierced even with parental consent. Some shops simply refuse to pierce minors, while other shops are more interested in the money than upholding the law, which means it is probably best to go elsewhere.

Body piercing is definitely not for everyone, but if it's something you want to do, there is a smart way to go about it to ensure that you have a pleasant piercing experience. Above all, do your research and use your common sense. And if something doesn't seem right, move on!