I've had mine pierced for about a year and a half now. Best piercings EVER. I always loved having my nipples bitten really hard and now all it takes is a gentle tug on the barbel and I am just over the moon! It didn't take them long to heal (though I do still get the crusties I have to clean off in the shower). I don't notice them being erect any more than usual, but they are always visible because of the jewelry. I actually enjoy having them visible and watching people's eyes alight on them ever-so-briefly and that brow raise when they notice that they're pierced...*pant, pant*

Oh yes, I was talking about the piercings. I love them and I hope to be able to keep them permanently, but the hubby and I are trying for another baby and they may not be compatible with breastfeeding (though I am getting small, flat barbels put in). Breastfeeding's more important than the piercings. So we'll see how it goes, I guess. But I would recommend nipple piercings to anybody. My sensitivity has increased and let's face it - they're just beautiful!