The practice of body piercing for pleasure has gained widespread popularity. Prior to undergoing a piercing, it is crucial to consider the hygiene guidelines and potential health risks associated with the procedure.
Preparation and Precautions for Piercing
When opting for unconventional body piercings, such as those on the tongue, penile head, or nipples, a certain level of care is essential. Expect some minimal bleeding for 1 to 3 days, particularly for male piercings. It's advisable to abstain from any fluid exchange in the pierced area for 2 months (or longer, up to a year, for deep tissue piercings) to prevent infection and promote proper healing. During the healing phase, which can range from weeks to months, the use of condoms and dental dams is imperative to maintain hygiene and protect against infections. Furthermore, refrain from swimming in pools or hot tubs for at least 2-4 weeks post-piercing.
Continuous cleanliness is crucial, even after the healing process. Regularly use an antiseptic product for cleaning. In the case of genital piercings, clean them twice daily with a diluted saline solution and soap and water, as well as after any sexual activity. If you notice signs of infection or persistent soreness, abstain from any form of sexual contact until the area has fully healed. Once the piercing site is no longer sensitive, gentle sexual activity can be resumed.
Selecting a Skilled Practitioner
Self-piercing is strongly discouraged, and needles should never be shared under any circumstances. Improper piercing practices can lead to the spread of bacterial skin infections and other serious infections, including herpes, HIV, Hepatitis B, and C. Seek out a seasoned practitioner with professional training who adheres to Infection Control Guidelines for body piercing.
Practitioners must consistently follow hygienic practices, including handwashing before wearing latex gloves and handling equipment, and utilizing new sterilized needles for each procedure. Avoid piercing guns with fixed components, as the components that come into contact with the body are not disposable. Medical needles are the standard for genital and body piercings. Reputable practitioners should provide healing time guidelines for each technique.
Before piercing the genital area, it should be prepped with an antiseptic, similar to other piercing sites, to prevent bacteria or viruses present on the skin from entering the body and causing infection. The skin is kept taut, often with surgical forceps, and a needle is inserted through the tissue. The jewelry is then inserted through the opening. Genital piercings typically use a heavier gauge of jewelry compared to other body piercings, as genital tissue can easily stretch or tear with thinner wires. If jewelry is removed for an extended period, it is recommended to use a temporary spacer (such as non-metallic sterile tubing or sutures) to prevent the piercing from closing.
Piercings and Pleasure
Tongue Piercing: Often chosen by individuals engaging in sexual activities with vulva owners to enhance cunnilingus. The piercing is typically located near the front of the tongue for this purpose. The stimulation of the clitoris with a steel ball attached to a saliva-coated tongue can significantly heighten pleasure.
Explore the vulva with your tongue as you typically would, regardless of whether you're pierced. For an added dimension, chill the piercing by placing an ice cube or a strong mint in your mouth before engaging in oral play. The contrast between the cold ring and the warmth of your tongue can create an amazing sensation. Beyond clitoral stimulation, you can use your tongue to explore other erogenous zones like the nipples, neck, lips, and even the anus, leading to unexpected pleasures.
Penis Piercing
Various piercing options exist for penis owners seeking genital piercings:
Ampallang: This involves a titanium barbell stud placed horizontally through the glans (head of the penis). It results in heightened firmness during sex and can enhance pleasure for both partners. Complete healing typically takes approximately 12 months.
Dydoe: Usually done in pairs, dydoe piercings consist of titanium barbell studs pierced through the Corona (ridge of the penis head). These piercings are believed to enhance sexual pleasure. Healing typically takes about 2 months.
Frenum: Unlike horizontal piercings, frenum piercings run along the length of the penis, piercing loose skin, resulting in less intense pain. They usually heal in approximately 2 months.
Prince Albert: Among the most popular piercings, this involves a bead ring (circular barbell) pierced into the urethra. Healing typically takes about 2 months.
Guiche: This piercing involves piercing the base of the scrotum through the perineum with a circular barbell. It can be prone to infection due to sweating in the area. Healing time varies by individual.
When using condoms, the polished jewelry poses no risk of tearing latex, as long as there is sufficient lubrication.
Clitoris and Labia Piercing
For vulva owners, piercings typically target the clitoral hood rather than the clitoris itself due to its sensitivity and intricate nerve clusters. Healing times can range up to 3 months post-piercing. Vertical hood piercing is generally less complicated than the horizontal variety.
Clitoral Piercing: Many piercers believe clitoral piercing heightens sexual pleasure. The ring's friction against the clitoris during sexual activities can enhance sensations. This pleasure is primarily for the vulva owner.
Christina Piercing: Also known as the Venus, this piercing is located under the pubic mound (mons veneris). It has specific anatomical criteria and may not be suitable for all vulva owners due to anatomical variations. A surface bar or curved barbell is often used for this piercing.
Fourchette Piercing: This piercing is less common and depends on the presence of a flap of skin at the back of the vulva. Healing typically takes 8-12 weeks.
Nipple Piercing
Nipple piercing is one of the most popular forms of piercing, often chosen to draw attention to the nipples or maintain erectness. Many individuals also find nipple piercings to be highly erotic.
General Information on Complications and Side Effects
Studies indicate no significant increase in pregnancy or delivery-related complications among women with genital piercings. Penis owners with Prince Albert piercings may experience some issues with urinary flow and aim, leading some to prefer sitting while urinating. Genital piercings are not associated with impotence or sterility. Most individuals with genital piercings report no complications, with complications primarily related to urinary flow for penis owners and hypersensitivity of the piercing site for vulva owners. Proper piercing techniques and hygienic aftercare minimize health concerns related to genital piercings.