WHAT IS SOUNDING?
In the medical sense, sounding is the practice of inserting a stainless steel rod into any passage of the body to probe or dilate the area (or sometimes to clear a blockage). The most common sounding is for the urethra (for men and women).
USES OUTSIDE OF MEDICINE
Sounding is heavily connected to BDSM as well as gay sex, BUT, it can be something enjoyed by any sexual orientation. It also doesn’t have to be connected to a deep kink.
WHY DO PEOPLE LIKE IT?
- Power play with BDSM
- Stimulation of sexual points, like the p-spot
- The practice of “taboo” acts
- Experimenting with new things
- Unique sensations
- Possible stronger orgasms
PEOPLE WHO SHOULD NOT DO IT
- abnormal discharge coming out of your urethra
- an active outbreak of a sexually transmitted infection
- a history of urinary tract infections
- a history of injury to the urethra
- various prostate conditions
TERMINOLOGY TO KNOW
PENIS/COCK STUFFING – another term for urethra sounding
BOUGIES – a term for a urethra rod, anything thin and cylindrical you insert
ROD – A long, thin, smooth rod. Can be moved in an out
PLUG – A solid or hollow rod with ridges, meant to stay in during sex
KINDS OF RODS
BAKES: Thin rod with a bulbous end, aka. Rosebud or bullet sounds
DITTEL: Round end and a flat end
HAN: A pronounced curve and metal rib at the end
PRATT: Long rods with rounded and slightly bent ends
VAN BUREN: Very pronounced tips
Sounds are measured with a “French system.” One French unit (Fr) = .33 millimeters. So, for example, a 20 Fr sound = 20 x .33, which is about 6 mm in diameter, or a quarter of an inch.
THE DOS AND DON’TS
NO SALIVA – It might seem like a convenient lubricant, but the tissue in these areas is VERY delicate. Saliva will dry out quickly and the rod will create friction.
USE LOTS OF LUBE – The best (and only) option is a sexual lubricant. Slather on PLENTY, never skimp. Use only water-based and chemical-free options. I used the “drag queen makeup” rule – if you think it’s enough, you need to add more.
START SMALL – As I mentioned before, the tissue in the urethral area is very delicate. If you’re new to sounding, always start with the smallest rod in the set. Over time, slowly work your way up in diameter. That being said, you don’t want it too thin either – otherwise, it’s like inserting a needle and you risk puncturing something.
DON’T FORCE IT – Even if you’re a pro, never EVER force the rod in if there is resistance. Take your time. There’s no rush. The same goes if you’re moving the rod in and out to give a “massage.” Any blockage could be a medical problem, scar tissue, etc.
NO THERMOMETERS – These are easy to get and (for some people) less embarrassing. However, these are the worst kind of toys you can use for this play. They can break, cut, and have the mercury leak everywhere. With the internet, there’s no reason not to have a safe set of sounds.
USE STAINLESS STEEL – The medical-grade versions are the best. Anything else, I wouldn’t recommend – if for no other reason than safety and hygiene. This includes glass. Stay away from it.
To learn how to insert safety, read this guide…
Simple Guide on How to Insert A Urethra Sound
PEE AFTER – Unless it’s a plug with a urination hold, you should wait until after play to go to the bathroom. It’s sometimes normal for there to be a little stinging for 24 hours after, but if it goes longer, consult a doctor.
CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN – Speaking of hygiene … clean and disinfect your rods before and after each use. You don’t want to end up with a tract infection.
AVOID THE ASS
When doing this kind of play, do not have something in your anus at the same time.
DON’T STROKE TOO HARD
The wonderful sensations might tempt you to touch yourself with vigor, but when there’s a steel rod up your body, it’s not the time for mad masturbation. Gentle, careful, and mindful.
DO GET CHECKED – If you do experience any burning sensations (peeing or otherwise), do visit a health professional and have a proper checkup.
DON’T DO IT OFTEN
It might feel fantastic, but sounding should be limited in how often you indulge. Give your body time to adjust and recover.
LISTEN TO YOUR OWN BODY – You’ll hear plenty of people say, “But I [insert act here], and I was fine.” Here are some examples, I’m sure you’ll come across…
- Used a thermometer once
- Tried a larger rod
- Only clean them after play
- Don’t use stainless steel
- Used a knitting needle
The thing is, just because someone did something one or two times (or more) without any problems, doesn’t mean the practice is safe. They are just lucky. Considering the sensitive area, products and practices aren’t something you want to take a chance with.
Also, remember, when you’re doing any sort of play that gets the adrenaline going, your body releases chemicals that help you deal with pain better. It might feel “fine” or “just uncomfortable” now, but later it could reveal damage.
Sounding can be fun, just please, PLEASE, be safe.
Any other sounding advice you want to share on urethra sounding? Leave a comment below!
