Should parents be banned from piercing their babies’ ears?

A petition to ban ear-piercing in babies and toddlers has been signed by almost 25,000 people. The petition, created by Susan Ingram, is calling for a minimum age requirement to be introduced in the UK. A statement on the 38 Degrees page describes child ear piercing as 'a form of child cruelty' akin to smacking:

'Severe pain and fear is inflicted upon infants unnecessarily. It serves no purpose other than to satisfy the parent's vanity. Other forms of physically harming children are illegal- this should be no different.'

Reality TV star Kim Kardashian West came under fire for piercing her daughter North's ears at 12 months old last year, while in 2013, supermodel Gisele was widely criticised for piercing the ears of her seven-month-old daughter Vivian Lake. Ear piercing is a tradition in many parts of the world, including in Kim's ancestral home of Armenia, which may explain her decision. What do you think, should baby and toddler ear piercing be banned completely? Tweet us @HerFamilydotie using the hashtag #HerFamOpinion