Vaginal and penile piercing: what are the risks to health?

For certain groups of people, piercing has become a culture or lifestyle that can describe a person's identity. So, it's no wonder that ear or nose piercings might sound very commonplace. But what about vaginal or penis piercings? You are also interested in trying it? If you are interested, you should first read the important information about the following male or female sex organ piercings.

Where can I get my sex organs pierced?

In women, the genital areas that can be pierced are the clitoris, clitoral sheath, inner vaginal lips, or outer vaginal lips. Meanwhile, the part of the genitals that can be pierced in men includes the shaft or tip of the penis. Penile piercing must not be performed by penetrating the penis from one side to the other. This is very dangerous for your reproductive health.

What is a vaginal or penis piercing procedure like?

You must not pierce your own sex organs. Look for a professional and reputable studio. Also make sure that the person who is piercing you has experience or has a special certificate stating that he or she has gone through special training in genital piercing.

Before getting pierced, your shaved sex organs will be cleaned with a special disinfectant liquid to prevent infection. Then the part to be pierced will be perforated with a special sterile needle. After that, through the hole, the jewelry you have selected will be pinned and closed. The area that has been pierced will then be cleaned again.

Is the procedure painful?

Everyone has different reactions and levels of tolerance to pain. However, in general, vaginal and penis piercings will be painful for about the first five seconds. This is the time when your sex organs are perforated with a special tool. After that, you may feel uncomfortable, but the pain should fade away in a few moments.

How long does the healing process take?

Vaginal or penile piercings usually heal completely after one to two months. Piercings in more sensitive areas such as the inner vaginal lips may take longer, up to four months. To avoid the risk of infection or injury, it's best to avoid having sex until the piercing has healed.

Health risks of vaginal or penis piercings

Vaginal or penile piercing is not a safe procedure. Before deciding to get your sex organs pierced, learn about the various risks and dangers below.

Bacterial infection. Anytime any part of your body is injured, whether intentionally or not, you are at risk of developing a bacterial infection. Symptoms include swelling, redness, fever, and a burning sensation or pain, especially when urinating. If you experience symptoms of infection, contact your doctor immediately.
Disease transmission. If you don't choose a piercing studio carefully, the tools you use may not be completely sterile and new. Piercing equipment that is not sterile or used is at risk of causing transmission of viruses such as HIV, hepatitis, tetanus, and other viruses that cause venereal disease.
Allergies and irritants. Sex organs are a very sensitive area. So, you may experience irritation or allergies to the jewelry or tools your piercing uses. Symptoms of allergy and irritation include a rash, redness, itching, fever, and clear discharge from the piercing.
Bleeding. You may experience light bleeding after the piercing for up to several weeks afterward. Especially if your piercing is rubbing against your clothes or seat. However, the bleeding should stop on its own once the wound has healed. If serious bleeding occurs, call emergency services immediately.
Nerve and tissue damage. If the person who pierced you is not skilled, it could be that your nerves were punctured or injured during the procedure. This can cause nerve damage and circulatory disorders.
Condoms tear easily. Vaginal or penile piercings run the risk of causing the condom to tear easily during sex. The reason is, the surface of the condom can be rubbed against the piercing jewelry. If not realized, this can lead to pregnancy and transmission of venereal diseases.

Take care of the sex organs after piercing

Maintaining cleanliness is the key to caring for your sex organs and piercings. Your piercings should be cleaned every day and after sex. Rinse with a solution of salt water, clean water, and soap.

Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching or cleaning the vaginal area and penis. If the piercing is on the tip of the penis near the urinary opening, clean it before urinating.