Is It Okay to Pierce A Baby’s Ears?

Is It Okay to Pierce a Baby’s Ears? What Canadian Parents Need to Know

For many families in Canada, ear piercing for babies is either a long-standing tradition or a controversial parenting decision. Whether you're a new parent wondering when (or if) to get your baby's ears pierced, or you're hearing strong opinions from friends and family, you're not alone. This topic sparks debate among Canadian parents, and for good reason — it touches on issues of culture, safety, and personal choice.

Why Do Some Parents Choose to Pierce Their Baby’s Ears?

For many, ear piercing in infancy is part of a cherished cultural or religious tradition. Families from Latin American, South Asian, Middle Eastern, and European backgrounds may pierce a baby’s ears as early as a few months old. Others do it for aesthetic reasons or to “get it over with early” when babies won’t remember the pain.

Some parents also believe it’s easier to care for ear piercings in babies than in older children, since infants are less likely to touch or tug at their ears.

What Are the Risks of Piercing a Baby’s Ears?

While ear piercing is generally safe when done by a professional, it does carry some risks, especially for babies with sensitive or delicate skin. 

Common concerns include:

• Infection – Improper aftercare or unsterile equipment can lead to redness, swelling, and even more serious infections.

• Allergic Reactions – Some babies may react to certain metals, especially nickel.

• Scarring or Keloids – While rare, some children are prone to excessive scarring.

• Choking Hazard – If an earring falls out or is pulled loose, it could pose a risk to curious infants.

That’s why the Canadian Paediatric Society recommends delaying non-medical body modifications like ear piercings until children are old enough to participate in the decision.

What’s the “Right” Age to Pierce a Child’s Ears?

There’s no official law in Canada that sets a minimum age for ear piercing — it’s up to the parents or guardians. Some clinics and jewelers have their own policies, often requiring that a baby be at least 3 months or 6 months old, sometimes older, especially to ensure they've had their first vaccinations.

That said, many parents choose to wait until their child is old enough to ask for piercings and take part in the aftercare process.

Tips for Safe Baby Ear Piercing in Canada

If you decide to move forward with ear piercing for your baby, here are a few safety tips:

• Choose a reputable clinic or piercing studio — Preferably one with experience working with babies and proper sterilization protocols. Avoid piercing guns, as they can be less hygienic and more traumatic to the tissue.

• Opt for hypoallergenic metals — Look for medical-grade stainless steel or 14k gold to reduce allergic reactions.

• Follow all aftercare instructions — Clean the area with saline solution and avoid touching the ears with dirty hands.

• Monitor for signs of infection — Redness, swelling, discharge, or pain could be signs that something isn’t right.

What Do Canadian Parents Think?

Opinions vary widely. Some parents feel it’s a harmless tradition, while others believe it's a decision that should be left to the child. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide what aligns with your family values, cultural beliefs, and comfort level.

Final Thoughts: Is It Okay to Pierce a Baby’s Ears?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. What’s most important is that the decision is informed, safe, and respectful of your child’s well-being. Whether you pierce your baby’s ears at 6 months or wait until they’re 6 years old, what matters most is doing what feels right for your family.

What do you think — should babies get their ears pierced?
Join the conversation with other Canadian parents and share your thoughts!