After I got my nipple pierced, people started telling me that I increased my risk of getting breast cancer. I wonder what, if any, harm I have caused myself; have I in fact increased my risk of breast cancer?

Lisa

I am aware of no evidence that nipple piercing increases the risk of breast cancer. Increased risk of infection, yes. Increased chance of damage to milk ducts that may affect future breastfeeding, yes. Increased risk of trauma (i.e., catching the nipple ring on something and tearing your nipple), yes. Social stigmatization, perhaps. But breast cancer -- no.