Ask the Sexpert: Do nipple piercings enhance or spoil sensation?
Shanna Katz, M.Ed, ACS is a queer, kinky, board certified…
Dear Shanna,
If someone gets their nipples pierced, does that enhance the sensation in them, or does it make them feel numb? Does it change if the barbells are vertical or horizontal?
– Needing Nipple Advice in Capitol Hill
Dear NNA –
Bodies are unique, and each one is going to have its own reaction to something invasive like piercing. For most people, having their nipples pierced can increase the amount of sensitivity in them, and intensify the sensations felt by stimulating them. However, as with all piercings in sexual areas (nipples, vulvas/labia/hoods, penises, scrotums, perineums, etc), your body might handle a piercing differently, and the nerves may react by numbing themselves, or changing the way that you experience sensation.
As far as vertical versus horizontal, that is a question best answered by your particular piercer. Different piercers have different preferences; some suggest horizontal for larger chests, and then there is also the conversation of rings or barbells. In the end, do your research, but remember that your piercer is the expert in their field, and defer to their wisdom.
If you want to increase nipple sensation as part of your sexual play without piercings, you can try out a variety of nipple clamps, nipple suckers (sometimes called snake bite kits), nipple pumps, etc.
Enjoy your nipple journey!
– Shanna
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Shanna Katz, M.Ed, ACS is a queer, kinky, board certified sexologist, sexuality educator and author. From topics like vaginal fisting to non-monogamy, and oral sex to how sexuality and dis/ability intersect, she talks, writes and teaches about the huge spectrum of sexuality, both from personal and professional perspectives. She’s using her Master’s of Sexuality Education to provide accessible, open-source sex education to people around the country. For more info, please visit her sexuality education site, ShannaKatz.com.