Genital Piercing Chart & FAQ
A genital piercing is a form of body modification where jewelry is inserted into various parts of the genital region. These piercings are performed on both male and female anatomy and can serve aesthetic, sensual, or personal expression purposes.
They’re most commonly known simply as “genital piercings” or “intimate piercings,” with specific names assigned based on the location—for example, Prince Albert, Christina, or VCH piercing.
There are many types; each piercing has its own placement, technique, and aftercare requirements. Please see the piercing diagrams above for a few references.
Female genital piercings refer to modifications on the vulva and surrounding areas. Specific names include VCH piercing, labia piercing, Christina piercing, Triangle piercing, and others—the exact term depends on the placement.
Male genital piercings refer to modifications on the penis, scrotum, or surrounding areas. Common piercing requests include the Prince Albert, frenum, and guiche among others.
A genital piercing chart is an illustrated guide that maps out the various possible placements and names of genital piercings. It’s a useful reference for both professionals and enthusiasts. Please see the two images above as they are both great examples of a genital piercing chart.
A genital piercing diagram is an illustrated guide that maps out the various possible placements and names of genital piercings. It’s a useful reference for both professionals and enthusiasts. Please see the two images above as they are both great examples of a genital piercing diagram.
Genital piercings have ancient roots and have been practiced in various cultures for ritualistic, aesthetic, and symbolic reasons. In modern times, they have become a popular form of self-expression and body art.
Benefits may include improved aesthetics, increased sensitivity or stimulation for some individuals, enhanced confidence, and a heightened sense of personal identity. Note that the effects can vary widely between individuals.
People choose genital piercings for reasons ranging from aesthetic enhancement and increased sexual pleasure to marking a personal milestone, cultural reasons, rites of passage, or simply expressing individuality.
People choose genital piercings for reasons ranging from aesthetic enhancement and increased sexual pleasure to marking a personal milestone, cultural reasons, rites of passage, or simply expressing individuality.
While pain is a personal experience that varies between individuals, it’s safe to say that a genital piercing will be more painful than piercings in less sensitive areas like the earlobe. Most people feel a sharp pinch during the procedure followed by varying levels of discomfort as the area heals.
Pain levels range from moderate to significant, depending on the piercing’s location, individual sensitivity, and the piercer’s technique. Many report that while the initial pain can be intense, it is generally brief. Some soreness may linger in the following weeks.
Pain levels range from moderate to significant, depending on the piercing’s location, individual sensitivity, and the piercer’s technique. Many report that while the initial pain can sometimes be intense, it is generally brief. Some soreness may linger in the following weeks.
Healing times vary depending on factors such as piercing type, individual differences, technique, jewelry quality, and climate. Some genital piercings, like the Prince Albert, might heal in 6–8 weeks, while others may take 6–12 months.
As above, healing durations differ widely. Healing depends on factors like placement, individual biology, piercing type, technique, jewelry quality, and climate.
The healing process typically begins with redness, soreness, swelling, and mild discomfort immediately after piercing. Over time, the tissue gradually integrates around the jewelry. A strict aftercare routine is essential and should include gently rinsing with water during your shower, using sterile saline solution or wound wash spray as needed, and avoiding harsh soaps, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antiseptics.
Prices generally range from about $50 to over $200, depending on the location, complexity, and the studio’s reputation.
The total cost will vary. Most genital piercings are in the $50 to $200 range for the service fee—before adding the cost of the jewelry.
The cost will vary. Female genital piercings typically range from $50 to $200 for the piercing service fee—before adding the cost of your jewelry.
The cost will vary. Male genital piercings are generally in the $50 to $200 range for the piercing service fee—before adding the cost of your jewelry.
High-quality, implant-certified titanium, niobium, or solid gold is used. Options include captive bead rings, circular barbells, curved barbells, or straight barbells.
Jewelry sizes vary based on the specific piercing and individual anatomy. The gauge and length are carefully selected by your piercer to ensure both comfort and aesthetic appeal.
Options include captive bead rings, curved barbells, straight barbells, and circular barbells. The choice depends on the piercing location and personal style.
Yes—once the piercing is fully healed, you can change the jewelry. It’s recommended to have a professional perform the change to avoid irritation or complications.
Genital piercing jewelry is available at professional studios, reputable online retailers, and specialized body jewelry shops. Always choose implant-grade materials or solid gold for safety.
No. Non-piercing jewelry (decorative accessories not designed for body modification) should not be used in a fresh, healed, or healing piercing because it’s most likely an ill-fitting size. Such jewelry is not made to the same standards as piercing jewelry. Properly sized jewelry with a high polish finish is essential for comfort.
When performed by an experienced professional using sterile techniques, most genital piercings are considered generally safe. As with any piercing, there is a risk of complications, but these can be minimized with proper aftercare.
They are not inherently dangerous; however, improper technique, inexperienced piercers, or poor aftercare can lead to complications such as unnecessary tissue damage, infection, excessive bleeding, or allergic reactions.
Like any piercing, there is a risk of infection. Adhering to strict hygiene and aftercare protocols greatly reduces this risk. Sometimes inter-urethral piercings are associated with a higher risk for male UTIs.
Many individuals report enhanced sensitivity or sexual pleasure after a genital piercing, though the effects vary from person to person. For some, the benefits are more aesthetic than physical.
Yes—once fully healed, many genital piercings can be removed temporarily. However, premature removal may cause the piercing to close or become infected.
After full healing, most genital piercings do not hinder sexual activity. In fact, some report enhanced stimulation. However, if your partner experiences discomfort, respect their consent. During healing, abstaining may be necessary to protect the piercing.
Most modern genital jewelry is made of non-magnetic, implant-certified materials that typically do not trigger metal detectors.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day and urinate frequently.
- Gently rinse with water while you shower. Use sterile saline solution or wound wash spray as needed.
- Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antiseptics.
- Gently rinse with water while you shower. Use sterile saline solution or wound wash spray as needed.
- Abstain from sexual activity around the piercing site for at least 6-8+ weeks to prevent irritation or infection.
- Avoid touching, twisting, or playing with the piercing site or jewelry.
- Wear breathable, loose-fitting underwear to minimize irritation.
During the initial healing period, cleaning once or twice daily while you shower is generally recommended. Your piercer might adjust this frequency as healing progresses.
- Gently rinse with water while you shower. Use sterile saline solution or wound wash spray as needed.
- Abstain from sexual activity around the piercing site for at least 6-8+ weeks to prevent irritation or infection.
- Avoid touching, twisting, or playing with the piercing site or jewelry.
- Wear breathable, loose-fitting underwear to minimize irritation.
If you notice signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or unusual discharge), seek advice from a professional healthcare provider or general practitioner. In some cases, oral antibiotics may be required.
Choose high-quality, implant-certified jewelry, adhere to a strict aftercare routine, and avoid activities that put undue pressure or friction on the piercing. Some anatomical placements are naturally more prone to rejection.
It’s best to have a professional remove a genital piercing to prevent damage, infection, or scarring. Self-removal can be risky, especially during healing. If you’re simply unscrewing an end of your jewelry at home, wear a pair of single-use disposable gloves and remember: “righty-tighty, lefty-loosey.”
Yes, once the piercing has fully healed, sexual activity is generally fine. During healing, however, it’s advisable to avoid sexual practices to prevent irritation.
Shaving around a healed piercing can be done carefully. During the healing period, it’s best to avoid shaving near the piercing to minimize irritation.
Waxing near a fresh genital piercing is not recommended. Once fully healed, consult with your piercer for tips about the specific piercing or see a professional to ensure safe hair removal.
Most professionals advise against getting any new piercings during pregnancy due to changes in the body and potential risks of infection.
Yes—depending on the placement and the jewelry used, many genital piercings can be discreetly concealed by clothing or swimwear.
Clementine Piercing offers many genital piercings. Johnny Pearce, one of the world's top rated and most trusted piercing professionals, holds tenure at Clementine Piercing in NYC—making it an excellent option for trusted piercing services.
Look for professional, APP-certified piercing studios with:
- Experienced piercers familiar with genital piercings.
- Strict hygiene and sterilization protocols.
- Positive client reviews and portfolio examples.
Please feel free to use trusted resources like the “Find a Professional Piercer” search function on the Association of Professional Piercers website.
Clementine Piercing offers PA piercings in NYC. Johnny Pearce, one of the world's top rated and most trusted piercing professionals, holds tenure at Clementine Piercing in NYC—making it an excellent option for trusted piercing services.
Look for professional, APP-certified piercing studios with:
- Experienced piercers familiar with genital piercings.
- Strict hygiene and sterilization protocols.
- Positive client reviews and portfolio examples.
Please feel free to use trusted resources like the “Find a Professional Piercer” search function on the Association of Professional Piercers website.
No—genital piercings require specialized skills and training. It’s essential to choose a piercer who has seasoned experience and a proven track record in successfully performing the specific intimate piercing that you're interested in.