Genital piercings
Definition
Genital piercings are jewelry worn through or around the genitals. In BDSM, they can serve an aesthetic, erotic, or functional purpose, for example for stimulation, control, or as an attachment point for bondage or pain play.
Explanation of genital piercings
Genital piercings come in many shapes and styles, depending on gender and the desired experience. They are performed by specialized piercers with knowledge of anatomy and healing times. Within BDSM, they are popular because of their combination of beauty, excitement, and symbolism: a piece of jewelry in an intimate place that serves as a permanent reminder of surrender, ownership, or erotic power.
Well-known piercings for men include:
Prince Albert (PA) – a ring through the urethra and underside of the glans, often loved for its intense stimulation.
Frenum or Ladder piercings – small horizontal piercings on the underside of the penis.
Guiche piercing – between the scrotum and anus, often sensitive and erotically charged.
Ampallang – a horizontal piercing that runs through the glans of the penis, usually through the urethra (transurethral) or just above it (non-urethral).
Apadravya – an intimate piercing jewelry in which a straight barbell runs vertically through the glans of the penis, from the bottom to the top.
Common variants in women are:
Vertical hood piercing (VCH) – through the hood above the clitoris; increases sensitivity and aesthetics.
Horizontal hood piercing (HCH) – horizontally through the clitoral hood.
Labia piercings – through the inner or outer labia, often used as jewelry or a fastening element in bondage.
Within BDSM, genital piercings can have a functional role. They can be connected with chains, padlocks, or weights, or serve as a grip in certain types of play. For some subs, a piercing also has symbolic meaning: it marks ownership, devotion, or surrender to the Dominant.
Safety & points of attention
Genital piercings require strict hygiene and aftercare, especially when used in BDSM:
Only have piercings done by a certified piercer with sterile instruments.
Avoid any form of play or strain during the healing period (usually 4 to 8 weeks, sometimes longer).
Do not use lubricant or oil containing alcohol on fresh piercings.
Clean the area daily with a saline solution and keep it dry.
Always check for irritation, swelling, or discharge; these can be signs of infection.
During BDSM sessions: avoid excessive pulling or friction, and only use light accessories while the piercing is still sensitive.
Communicate clearly about boundaries and pain signals, as sensitivity can vary greatly from person to person and location to location.
A properly healed genital piercing can provide years of enjoyment, but careless use can lead to scarring, nerve damage, or permanent loss of sensation. Knowledge, experience, and attention are therefore essential.
Related terms genital piercings
Ampallang
Apadravya
Body modification
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