Here is an email exchange that started as a comment to one of my other posts:

Hey, I wanted to know if I could ask a question about a VCH that was done MONTHS ago (at least 5) and might be rejecting.How do I know?  Would I be able to send a picture and you tell me, or can I find a picture online?

My response: I offer professional online consultations for a nominal fee ($10). When you sign up, you would send some clear, close up photos. I'd be happy to give you a thorough evaluation and provide you with my opinion about the placement and condition of your piercing as well as the jewelry fit.

What problems are you having that make you feel concerned about this? To see photos and information about properly placed VCH piercings go here. Also, you can watch me do the piercing here.

Marie wrote again:

I think it was placed well. I went to Brian Decker, who has a meticulous method of piercing. He autoclaves everything and I've had a few other piercings from him as well. The main issue is that although I'm not certain, I think I may be allergic to piercing metal.  I have had quite a few piercings rejected, but I went to him for my last three and I thought I would be fine. I got my scrumper done (has been fine), my septum (fine also), and also my VCH. I was showering this morning and noticed that it was a bit swollen all around the actual piercing.  I wasn't sure if that was normal. But it doesn't itch, and doesn't hurt either. When I get home form work I will take a few pictures and send them to you. I was going to go to a piercer, but I felt a little self conscious. Then I was going to go to a doctor, but they don't really know much about piercings and would probably tell me it doesn't look good. Thanks again! ~marie

Hi Marie, It is always a good idea to return to a trusted, competent piercer if you have questions or concerns. And, it is true: many doctors do not have training or information to properly deal with piercings. Hopefully, my book, The Piercing Bible, will help them out!

Did you heal well at first and then start to experience problems after several months? Most quality body jewelry is very inert. What style are you wearing? Do you know which metal?  If you're really allergic to the metal, then you probably would have experienced more problems with it during initial healing. One thing that can happen over time is to develop a sensitivity to jewelry if it contains nickel--but generally there would be some itching in such cases. But any time you think you might be reacting to metal, if you are wearing steel, consider switching to another option such as implant-certified titanium or inert plastic.