What Are the Different Types of Genital Piercings?
A factual guide to every genital piercing type across all anatomies: placement details, pain levels, healing times and jewellery guidance included for each.Genital Piercing Types Explained
Genital piercings are among the most specialised and anatomy-dependent piercings available. They are performed by professional piercers with specific training in intimate placements and require thorough consultation before the procedure. In the UK, genital piercings are only available to those aged 18 and over.
The range of placements available differs between anatomies and each type has its own risk profile, aftercare requirements and jewellery considerations. Some piercings such as the Prince Albert or VCH are widely offered by studios across the UK. Others such as the apadravya, fourchette or triangle require specialist knowledge and may only be performed at dedicated piercing studios. This guide covers all the main types in a clear and factual format.
Genital Piercings for Vulva Anatomy
Genital Piercings for Penis and Scrotal Anatomy
| Piercing Type | Placement | Pain | Healing Time | Best Jewellery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prince Albert (PA) | Urethra to underside of glans | 4/10 | 4–8 weeks | Captive ring, curved barbell |
| Reverse Prince Albert | Urethra to top of glans | 6/10 | 4–8 weeks | Curved barbell, captive ring |
| Frenum Piercing | Underside of penile shaft | 5/10 | 3–6 months | Straight barbell, captive ring |
| Foreskin Piercing | Through the prepuce | 4/10 | 6–8 weeks | Captive ring, circular barbell |
| Dydoe Piercing | Rim of the glans corona | 8/10 | 4–6 months | Curved barbell |
| Ampallang | Horizontally through glans | 8/10 | 6–9 months | Straight barbell |
| Apadravya | Vertically through glans | 8/10 | 6–9 months | Straight barbell |
| Guiche Piercing | Between scrotum and anus | 6/10 | 3–6 months | Captive ring, curved barbell |
| Jacob's Ladder | Multiple frenum piercings | 5/10 | 3–6 months per point | Straight barbells |
What to Know Before Getting a Genital Piercing
Genital piercings require consultation with an experienced piercer before any procedure is booked. Anatomy varies significantly between individuals and many genital piercings are only possible if sufficient tissue is present in the target area. A piercer should always assess your anatomy in person before confirming whether a specific placement is suitable for you.
In the UK genital piercings are restricted to those aged 18 and over. All reputable studios will require proof of age before proceeding. Sexual activity should be avoided during the initial healing period and barrier protection is recommended once activity resumes to reduce infection risk. If you are considering any urethral piercing it is worth noting that some piercers recommend sitting to urinate during healing due to changed urine flow.
For a complete overview of all piercing types across every placement category, visit the Piercing Types Explained hub page, the central resource for piercing information at OSCO London.
Book your piercing consultation at OSCO London
OSCO London offers professional intimate and genital piercings for those aged 18 and over. All piercings use implant-grade titanium as standard.
OSCO London is a professional piercing studio based in Northwood, London, offering intimate and specialist piercings carried out by trained professionals. Visit the OSCO London homepage to book your appointment and learn more about the studio.
Aftercare for Genital Piercings
Genital piercings require the same core aftercare as other piercing types: clean twice daily with sterile saline solution, avoid touching the jewellery with unwashed hands and allow the fistula to form undisturbed. Due to the sensitive location, aftercare is particularly important and consistency directly affects healing outcomes.
Loose, breathable underwear is recommended during healing to reduce friction. Avoid hot tubs, swimming pools and natural water bodies until fully healed. Sexual activity should be avoided for the duration of healing recommended by your piercer and barrier protection used after that to protect against infection and irritation from bodily fluids.
For information on every other piercing placement, visit the Piercing Types Explained hub, covering ear, nose, lip, body and specialist piercing types in one comprehensive resource.