Cupping
Definition
Cupping is a practice in which glass, plastic, or silicone cups are placed on the skin and vacuumed. Within BDSM, cupping is used as a form of pain and play, whereby the skin is pulled upward and temporary red or purple marks (bruises) appear.
Explanation of cupping
Cupping has its origins in traditional medicine (such as Chinese and Arabic medicine), where it was used as a therapy to promote blood flow and relieve tension. In the BDSM world, cupping has been adopted as a pain and sensation game, whereby the vacuum causes an intense pulling sensation on the skin. But it can also be used as a moment of relaxation.
The cups are usually placed on the back, shoulders, thighs, or buttocks. The vacuum sucks the skin upward, causing a strong pulling sensation that can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, depending on the duration and strength of the vacuum. Often, noticeable round, purple marks are left behind that can be visible for days. For some, this is part of the appeal: the visible mark that shows what has happened.
Fire cupping
In BDSM, cupping can also be combined with other forms of play, such as wax play or impact play. Sometimes the cups are heated (fire cupping), whereby a flame is used to briefly remove oxygen from the cup to create a stronger vacuum. However, this requires extra caution, as burns can occur.
The appeal of cupping lies in both the physical sensation and the psychological experience: the submissive may experience a feeling of helplessness and surrender, while the dominant plays with intensity, patterns, and marks on the body.
Safety & points of attention
Clean the cups thoroughly before and after use.
Do not leave cups on for too long; this can lead to deep bruising or permanent skin damage.
Avoid cupping on people with blood clotting problems, skin diseases, or serious cardiovascular disease.
Do not use on sensitive areas such as the face, abdomen, or directly over bones.
Only use with knowledge and experience. There is a risk of burns and extreme caution is required.
Related terms
Blood cupping
Fire cupping
Medical play
Vacuüm play
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