Piercing babies ears

[shirleybanister]

I saw a baby/toddler, around 18 months old, having her ears pierced today in Claire's, West Quay, Southampton store.
One minute she was sitting on her mum's knee smiling as a friend distracted her with a fluffy toy, the next minute she was screaming her head off!
What happens if the earring comes out while she is in her cot and she swallows it?
Is okay for shops and mum's to pierce babies ears?

Totally unnecessary until the child is old enough to understand the pain that is about to be inflicted on them. I personally wouldn't entertain the idea until child was high school age.
I had mine done aged 20 and it was bloody painful. Why would you inflict that on a child unless it was absolutely necessary? I just don't get it.

I am pleased that so many mumsnet members are against ear piercing for children who are to young to state a preference.

I like the idea of boycotting Claire's because of this practice, and will be doing just that -thinking of writing to Claire's

With circumcision, if it is not needed for health reasons, I think it should only be available to consenting adults.

Bet a load of men would suddenly decide that that particular cultural norm is not for them!