A diagram of a VCH piercing, illustrating a curved barbell positioned vertically through the clitoral hood.

VCH Piercing FAQ

A Vertical Clitoral Hood (VCH) piercing is a genital piercing passing through the tissue of the clitoral hood. (and not the clitoris itself)
VCH piercing sizes are anatomically dependent. They are often performed at 12g, and occasionally as small as 14g. Though some people may request 10g or larger, depending on personal preferences and anatomical restraints.
Common jewelry includes curved barbells and straight barbels. Although captive beads can also be worn. Safe piercing jewelry should be made of implant-certified titanium, solid gold, or implant certified steel.
The sizing for jewelry refers to both the gauge and the length of the barbell. Both of these factors will be anatomically dependent based on each individual.
Healing can take from 6-12 weeks, though full healing may take longer depending on aftercare and personal healing factors.
VCH stands for Vertical Clitoral Hood, referring to the piercing’s placement.
A VCH piercing ring is the same general circular-style jewelry option, such as a captive bead ring or seamless ring, used after healing.
It is placed vertically through the clitoral hood, above the clitoris, allowing jewelry to rest in place naturally.
Pain levels always vary for each individual, but many report it as a quick, sharp pinch followed by minimal discomfort during healing.
  • Pros: Many people report that it enhances sensitivity. This piercing offers a quick healing experience comparatively to other piercings and it’s often referred to as aesthetically pleasing by many individuals who request the piercing.
  • Cons: This piercing requires proper anatomy and it has potential for migration or rejection.
Drink lots of water and urinate frequently. Clean with sterile saline solution as needed. Rinse gently in the shower; avoid using harsh soaps, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide. Avoid touching the jewelry, and wear breathable clothing during healing.
Prices vary by location and studio, but service fees can easily range up to $150, not including the added cost of your jewelry.
Yes, although infections are rare with proper aftercare. Symptoms include extreme redness, over-swelling, discharge, and persistent pain.
You can attempt the ‘Q-tip test’ at home, however, your professional piercer will need to make an assessment whether you have enough tissue in the clitoral hood to support the piercing.
A VCH piercing (Vertical Clitoral Hood) is placed vertically through the clitoral hood, while an HCH (Horizontal Clitoral Hood) piercing passes horizontally.
Curved barbells, straight barbells, captive bead rings, and seamless rings are common options. Safe materials for initial healing and long-term wear include implant-certified titanium, solid gold or implant-certifed steel.
Most people heal within 6-12 weeks with proper aftercare. Full healing may take longer depending on aftercare, environment and underlying health factors.
It is recommended to wait at least 4+ weeks before engaging in sexual activity involving/surrounding the piercing site to avoid irritation and infection.
Drink lots of water and urinate frequently. Clean with sterile saline solution as needed. Rinse gently in the shower; avoid using harsh soaps, rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide.
Yes, once fully healed, jewelry can be removed, and the hole may close naturally over time.
Experiences regarding pain vary from individual to individual. However, the commonly reported theme is that people experience a “sharp pinch” for “only a brief moment” during the procedure.
High-quality, biocompatible materials like implant-grade titanium, niobium, or gold are ideal.
While ”Cute AF” tends to be the popular reaction - Visually, it consists of a small barbell or ring passing through the vertical fold of the clitoral hood.
A VCH goes through the clitoral hood, while a Christina piercing is a surface piercing located at the pubic mound. Christina Piercings are often considered as ornamental, while VCH Piercings may be regarded as functional.
Signs of rejection include continued migration, prolonged healing, or reverting to an unhealed state, continued redness and potentially the visual sight of the piercing hole enlarging over time.
Cold compresses inside a single-use disposable bag can help reduce initial swelling while minimizing bacteria transfer.
Avoid any clothing that causes discomfort. Many people report that it is best to wear loose, breathable clothing to prevent irritation during healing.
Avoid submerging the piercing in pools, hot tubs, or baths for at least 6+ weeks to prevent the transfer of infection causing bacteria.
It is discreet and not visible unless intentionally shown.
While we don’t guarantee this personal experience, many report increased sensitivity once healed, but individual experiences vary.