We had my DD's done when she was about 5months. It is tradition for us- my mum, me and now her have it done. I was only young as well and don't remember it being done and I think it is better to get it done earlier because they don't understand what the (minimal) pain really is. Lily has never tugged at hers and doesn't seem to notice they're there at all. She's had no infections and no problems at all.